Programming: Methods and Rules

These tools show us that children can program a system by manipulating the interface without having to middle with the programming language. Some of the strategies used and applied in these tools, in order to minimize the difficulties in programming for children are:

• programming by rehearsal,
• programming by demonstration,
• programming with contextual signs,
• programming by example,
• object-oriented programming, and
• rule-based programming.

It is difficult to consider how to create a new programming tool for children that is easy to use, appropriate for various ages in content and fosters exciting learning experiences. This paper discusses the development of a game authoring tool for children and is organized starting with a background approach with a particular focus on children and programming. Then we propose the concept of the game authoring tool in general to enhance problem solving skills among children. The paper concludes with our plan and future work on the tool.