Algotaurus: an educational computer programming game for beginners

Abstract

An educational computer game is presented, used for beginner students to introduce some basic concepts of code execution and code writing. In this mini-language microworld game, a code should be written with which a robot can escape from a procedurally generated labyrinth. The game uses a simple language and utilizes a virtual environment, where code execution could be tracked easily. One essential advantage of the software is that after a very short training, students can start experimenting, and they can understand many basic properties of code writing and execution. Based on several pilot teaching classes in both primary schools and universities, the game is an efficient tool to introduce the bases of computer programming, which bases might be harder to demonstrate with other educational tools.