Diagnosing learners' problem solving strategies using learning environments with algorithmic problems in secondary education

Abstract

At schools special learning and programming environments are often used in the field of algorithm. Particularly with regard to informatics lessons in secondary education they should help novices to learn the basics of programming. In several parts of Germany (e. g. Bavaria) these fundamentals are even taught in the 7th grade, when pupils are 12 to 13 years old. Age-based designed learning and programming environments such as Karel, the robot and Kara, the programmable ladybug, are employed there, however learners still underachieve. One possible approach to improve both teaching and learning process is specifying the knowledge concerning the learners' individual problem solving strategies, when they create their solutions in consideration of the solution attempt's quality.