AI-Assisted Learning in Graphical Programming in Game Development with UMPSA STEM Lab
At UMPSA STEM Lab, we are dedicated to pioneering innovative approaches to teaching, leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance learning experiences. In our latest initiative, we have integrated AI-assisted learning into our graphical programming curriculum, focusing on game development. This blog post outlines our approach, highlighting a step-by-step guide from creating the game character to implementing a scoring system. Our primary tool for AI assistance is the ChatGPT platform. This course is designed for school teachers, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to bring engaging, technology-driven learning into their classrooms.
The journey begins with the classic game of Snake. The first step is to create the snake head. Using Scratch, teachers learn to design a simple sprite representing the snake’s head. ChatGPT assists by providing instant feedback and suggestions on sprite creation, ensuring that even those new to graphical programming can follow along effortlessly. For instance, teachers can ask ChatGPT for tips on sprite design or troubleshooting any issues they encounter during the creation process.
With the snake head created, the next task is to make it move. Teachers are guided through programming the sprite to move continuously and respond to arrow key inputs. ChatGPT offers code snippets and explanations, helping participants understand the logic behind sprite movement and control. This AI support allows teachers to quickly grasp the concepts and effectively implement them in their projects.
A key element of the Snake game is the food that the snake eats to grow. Teachers learn to create a food sprite and program it to appear at random positions on the screen. ChatGPT assists in writing the code for random positioning and collision detection between the snake head and food. By leveraging AI, teachers can receive immediate support and suggestions for optimizing their code.
When the snake eats the food, it grows longer. In this act, teachers learn to add a segment to the snake each time it eats food. ChatGPT provides guidance on how to use lists to keep track of the snake’s segments and update their positions accordingly. This AI-assisted learning approach helps teachers understand the concept of lists and how they can be used effectively in programming.
To make the game challenging, the snake must avoid colliding with itself or the screen edges. Teachers learn to implement collision detection and end the game when a collision occurs. ChatGPT helps by explaining the logic and providing sample code to detect collisions. This AI support enables teachers to quickly grasp complex programming concepts and apply them to their projects.
The final step is to add a scoring system to keep track of the player’s progress. Teachers learn to create a variable to store the score and update it each time the snake eats food. ChatGPT assists in writing the code to increment the score and display it on the screen. By utilizing AI, teachers can ensure their code is efficient and error-free.
The goal of this course is to empower teachers with the skills and confidence to integrate AI-assisted learning into their classrooms. By leveraging the ChatGPT platform, teachers can access real-time support and guidance, making it easier to learn and teach complex programming concepts. This not only enhances their technical skills but also prepares them to inspire and engage their students with interactive, technology-driven lessons.
At UMPSA STEM Lab, we believe in the power of AI to transform education. Our AI-assisted learning approach in graphical programming for game development provides teachers with a robust framework to enhance their teaching methodologies. By integrating tools like ChatGPT, we are paving the way for a future where technology and education go hand in hand, creating a dynamic and interactive learning environment for students.
Today’s program is in collaboration with Pekan Education District Office. Join us in this exciting journey of AI-assisted learning and discover how you can bring the magic of game development into your classroom, inspiring the next generation of tech-savvy learners.
