Development of constructionist robotics to facilitate learning in C programming course

Abstract

Learning to program at a stationary computer for any programming course can be boring and demotivated especially when dealing with complex syntax details. A more hands-on approach utilizing robotic module will lead to a better task-oriented interaction between students and their real-life surroundings hoping to increase student engagement with programming. Thus, this paper proposed a constructionist robotic module to facilitate learning in C programming curriculum utilizing a microcontroller board known as FRDM-KL05Z. The module consists of several input and output components that can be utilized to establish human-machine interaction depending on the instruction code written by the students. A pilot survey was also carried out to assess overall impression of the student towards the proposed approach in teaching and learning activities. Results indicated that students were satisfied with the approach as it help to improve their understanding in C Programming.