Tangible Interfaces for Programming Environments for Children

In the midst of the current technological developments, the concept of “Computational Thinking” (CT) has been discussed as a fundamental component for future generations. A ludic way to introduce CT is through new visual programming environments and platforms, and through the usage – yet to be explored – of tangible interfaces for the access of such environments. This research project aims: to analyze the role of these systems and their interfaces (focusing on the programs Kodu and Scratch) in the educational context; to develop supportive materials, for teachers and students, to help on the usage of the environments; and to conduct an experiment, involving all systems, with children attending a public school of Campinas, comparing its results to what was predicted according to the literature.