Narrative-Driven Learning: Teaching Finite State Machines Through Storytelling

Bogdan Iudean, Andreea Vescan

2025

Abstract

Teaching embedding systems demands a thorough understanding of computation models, with Finite State Machines (FSM) serving as one of the frameworks for developing the intricate behaviors of these systems. This study investigates the effectiveness of teaching Finite State Machines through storytelling using a controlled experiment with two groups: a Control Group (CG) taught traditionally and a Storytelling Group (SG) taught using a narrative-driven video. Data from pre-tests and post-tests and feedback questionnaires reveal that while storytelling did not significantly improve post-test scores, it enhanced application skills in the SG group. Storytelling helped students better connect FSM concepts to real-life scenarios like traffic lights and vending machines, while CG responses remained more abstract. Additionally, SG participants rated the video highly for attention and clarity, though some preferred more direct explanations. These findings suggest storytelling supports conceptual understanding and engagement, offering a complementary approach to teaching FSMs.

Paper Citation

in Harvard Style

Iudean B. and Vescan A. (2025). Narrative-Driven Learning: Teaching Finite State Machines Through Storytelling. In Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Computer Supported Education - Volume 2: CSEDU; ISBN 978-989-758-746-7, SciTePress, pages 627-638. DOI: 10.5220/0013471600003932

in Bibtex Style

@conference{csedu25,
author={Bogdan Iudean and Andreea Vescan},
title={Narrative-Driven Learning: Teaching Finite State Machines Through Storytelling},
booktitle={Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Computer Supported Education - Volume 2: CSEDU},
year={2025},
pages={627-638},
publisher={SciTePress},
organization={INSTICC},
doi={10.5220/0013471600003932},
isbn={978-989-758-746-7},
}

in EndNote Style

TY - CONF

JO - Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Computer Supported Education - Volume 2: CSEDU
TI - Narrative-Driven Learning: Teaching Finite State Machines Through Storytelling
SN - 978-989-758-746-7
AU - Iudean B.
AU - Vescan A.
PY - 2025
SP - 627
EP - 638
DO - 10.5220/0013471600003932
PB - SciTePress