Bringing physical computing to an underserved community in an informal learning space

Abstract

This study investigates how underserved children in the community develop Computational Thinking skills through learning physical computing with the support from older tutor volunteers. The children learned to construct physical computing projects by learning to code the micro:bit, and using various input sensors and controlling output devices. We observed the students and their interaction with the mentors to understand how they develop their Computational Thinking skills as they construct the projects. From our findings, learning with tutors can provide the support in developing Computational Thinking skills in the children.