Designing Contents for a Serious Game for Learning Computer Programming with Different Target Users

In recent years, all over the world, students are less interested in science, especially in computer science where the number of students is shrinking. Also, 50% or more students who initially choose computer science soon abandon the study. Hence, it is essential to attract students to learn computer science, in particular computer programming, via non conventional teaching approach. A promising medium is serious game for learning computer programming, given its fun gameplay characteristics. However, several games intended for computer programming are either hard to be extended, lack of dynamicity, or are not challenging which lead to boredom and lack of motivation in learning. On the other hand, computer science unplugged learning for primary-aged children via mathematical based activities using, for instance, cards and boards, is considered to be very compelling and improving conceptualization. Moreover, problem solving skill acquisition in form of puzzle based learning for university students are immediately pertinent to their problem solving skills development due to its attracting and intellectually challenging nature. Given these facts, this paper presents game contents targeted for different prior knowledge in programming which will be used in serious game for learning programming.