Computational Thinking through Design Patterns in Video Games

TL;DR

This paper proposes a novel approach linking design patterns in video games to computational thinking skills, suggesting that games can be used to train and reinforce these skills effectively in programming education.

Contribution

It introduces a fundamental framework connecting video game design patterns with computational thinking, addressing limitations of previous general or narrowly focused methods.

Findings

Identifies specific design patterns that promote computational thinking

Suggests video games can effectively train computational skills

Provides a conceptual basis for integrating games into programming education

Abstract

Prior research has explored potential applications of video games in programming education to elicit computational thinking skills. However, existing approaches are often either too general, not taking into account the diversity of genres and mechanisms between video games, or too narrow, selecting tools that were specifically designed for educational purposes. In this paper we propose a more fundamental approach, defining beneficial connections between individual design patterns present in video games and computational thinking skills. We argue that video games have the capacity to elicit these skills and even to potentially train them. This could be an effective method to solidify a conceptual base which would make programming education more effective.