Affective recognition and gamification applied to learning algorithmic logic and programming

Abstract

This paper presents a learning environment that uses affective recognition techniques and gamification to teach algorithmic logic and programming. This environment was evaluated and contrasted with engineering students. The method consisted in assessing student learning of algorithmic logic using traditional techniques compared to learning with automatic recognition of emotions and motivational management using gamification. Tests and surveys were conducted with 42 students, who were divided into two groups, and two different system configurations were used to assess the gamification techniques implemented. The results showed that learning is statistically better if students' affective state is taken into account, and if students are motivated through gamification.