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Key research themes
1. How can the PRIMM framework enhance programming pedagogy and learner outcomes in web programming education?
This theme investigates the structured pedagogical approach known as PRIMM (Predict-Run-Investigate-Modify-Make) for teaching programming within web programming curricula, focusing on how its stepwise, scaffolded methodology enhances learner confidence, engagement, and attainment by emphasizing code reading before writing. It also examines the sociocultural dimensions that inform PRIMM's design, investigating teacher experiences and learner achievement improvements through empirical studies.
Key finding: This paper identified that the PRIMM approach, which structures programming lessons through prediction, execution, code investigation, modification, and creation phases, provides teachers with a clear scaffolded framework... Read more
Key finding: Empirical evaluation of PRIMM across 13 schools with nearly 500 students demonstrated statistically significant improvements in learner attainment in programming compared to control groups. The study framed PRIMM within... Read more
2. What are the effective digital frameworks and tools for engaging children in introductory web programming and interactive content creation?
This theme explores the design and development of child-friendly, block-based web programming environments that simplify complex coding concepts through visual and interactive interfaces. It focuses on integrating frontend and backend programming education using frameworks like Google Blockly, as well as the role of multimedia and adaptive hypermedia in making programming accessible and motivating for children and novice learners.
Key finding: Introduced a comprehensive block-based educational application leveraging Google Blockly to teach children aged 11+ both frontend (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and backend web programming concepts. The application’s dual interface... Read more
Key finding: Developed and demonstrated Bongo, a programming environment tailored for children to design and share interactive video games on the Web. By simplifying the complexity of Java programming into a construction kit format, Bongo... Read more
Key finding: Showcased the use of HTML5 and interactive content authoring tools like H5P to develop engaging and multimedia-rich eLearning courses for web-based education. The study emphasized interactivity, tailored content, and... Read more
Key finding: Presented an adaptive hypermedia system framework that personalizes web-based learning content according to individual learner models, optimizing navigational aids and content delivery. The use of AI techniques facilitates... Read more
3. How can web-based simulations and collaborative platforms be leveraged to overcome resource and access limitations in introductory web programming education?
This theme investigates the use of browser-based simulation environments and collaborative online tools to provide scalable, accessible programming education without the constraints of physical resources. It examines virtual robotics platforms, courseware environments, and collaborative web frameworks that reduce costs, facilitate remote learning, and support interactive, engaging pedagogies suited for novice programmers.
Key finding: Developed a networked virtual robotics platform accessible via web browsers that enables students to engage with robotics programming challenges without physical hardware costs. This approach significantly lowers barriers to... Read more
Key finding: Introduced CourseMaker, an adaptable web-based course construction kit enabling teachers to create and manage online lessons without programming expertise. Its modular architecture supports linear and non-linear navigation... Read more