The BRACElet 2009.1 (Wellington) Specification

BRACElet is a multi-institutional computer education research study of novice programmers. The project is open to new members. The purpose of this paper is to: (1) provide potential new members with an overview of BRACElet, and (2) specify the common core for the next data collection cycle. In this paper, BRACElet is taking the unusual step of making its study design public before data is collected. We invite anyone to run their own study using our study design, and publish their findings, irrespective of whether they formally join BRACElet. We look forward to reading their paper. © 2009, Australian Computer Society, Inc

Problem Solving of Mathematical Games

Mathematical games are problems that involve algorithmic solutions. The solutions require recognition of hidden patterns and capitalization on these patterns. The natural tendency of many problem solvers is to devise algorithms without fully unfolding patterns. Such an approach lacks rigor and may lead to undesired outcomes. This chapter underlines a rigorous approach, of first focusing on the characteristics of a posed game and then developing its algorithmic solution. The solution development “goes” hand-in-hand with the realization of correctness. The approach is based on declarative observations, which capture the “what” of patterns prior to the “how” of game-strategy instructions. We illustrate the approach with colorful mathematical games of different characteristics and underline elements of solution processes, including creativity, problem-solving features, and mathematical notions