Development of Computer Games for Training Programming Skills

The opportunity to use a game based approach for the teaching of software engineering, from the basics of programming through to more complex problems like operations research, has received much attention. The majority of games that have been used in such teaching focus on a two stage approach, one in which the code solution is developed and the second in which the artifact developed is used in a game. While this approach has some merit it is seen to be in danger of separating the "fun" element from the "learning" element of the process and thus reducing the engagement of the learners with what they have to learn. This paper offers a different approach which involves the seamless integration of the learning elements into the game itself. Certain constraints for such games are analyzed and the advantage of our approach is highlighted. Two examples of games are given which illustrate this approach in use. The technical background to these specific games which can be used as training for learned material or tests of that learned material are given. The core of this mechanism is the development of a database of leaned element lexemes which can be reused for other games. The positive outcome of this has been seen in testing with two groups of learners who found the games engaging.