Using Helium Balloon Flying Drones for Introductory CS Education

TL;DR

This paper explores the use of helium balloon flying drones as an innovative, physical computing tool to enhance engagement and learning outcomes in introductory computer science education.

Contribution

It introduces a novel educational approach using helium balloon drones to teach fundamental CS concepts, aiming to increase student motivation and engagement.

Findings

Physical computing devices boost student motivation.

Engaging educational experiences improve learning outcomes.

Drones can serve as effective teaching tools in CS education.

Abstract

In the rapidly evolving field of computer science education, novel approaches to teaching fundamental concepts are crucial for engaging a diverse student body. Given the growing demand for a computing-skilled workforce, it is essential to adapt educational methods to capture the interest of a broader audience than what current computing education typically targets. Engaging educational experiences have been shown to have a positive impact on learning outcomes and examination performance, especially within computing education. Moreover, physical computing devices have been shown to correlate with increased student motivation when students are studying computer science.