Scratch-based learning objects for novice programmers: exploring quality aspects and perceptions for primary education

Abstract

ABSTRACT Learning computer programming can be challenging for primary school students due to its abstract concepts. While teachers seek effective ways to introduce such concepts, the application of learning objects (LOs) can potentially reduce the effort of creating new material from and allows teachers to adapt LOs to students’ needs. Although numerous LOs have been developed for multiple disciplines, there is a current research gap using LOs in teaching and learning computer programming at the primary school level. The current paper aims to explore the quality of five Scratch-based LOs created to facilitate teaching and learning programming in primary education. We followed a single instrumental case study collecting data from 25 in-service teachers and 91 primary school students, who, using the LORI instrument, evaluated Scratch-based LOs created in real learning contexts. The results showed that participants assessed the LOs’ quality positively, highlighted their learning effectiveness, pleasant design, and increase in student motivation. While the findings cannot be generalized, the LOs can serve as support material both for teachers to introduce programming, and for students to comprehend key programming concepts. Future work concerns the exploration of the LOs affordability when applied in real situations.