Qupcakery: A Puzzle Game that Introduces Quantum Gates to Young Learners
Authors: 
Tianle Liu, David Gonzalez-Maldonado, Danielle B. Harlow, Emily E. Edwards, Diana FranklinAuthors Info & Claims
Tianle Liu, David Gonzalez-Maldonado, Danielle B. Harlow, Emily E. Edwards, Diana FranklinAuthors Info & ClaimsPages 1143 - 1149
Abstract
Quantum computing (QC) is an emerging field at the intersection of computer science and physics. Harnessing the power of quantum mechanics, QC is expected to solve otherwise intractable problems significantly faster, including in encryption, drug development, and optimization. High-quality and accessible QC resources are needed to help students develop the critical skills and confidence to contribute to the field. However, existing programs are often aimed at college students with an advanced mathematics or physics background, shutting out potential innovators.
To make quantum learning resources for a broad, young audience, we designed Qupcakery, a puzzle game that introduces players to several core QC concepts: quantum gates, superposition, and measurement. We present preliminary testing results with both middle school and high school students. Using in-game data, observation notes, and focus group interviews, we identify student challenges and report student feedback. Overall, the game is at an appropriate level for high school students but middle school students need more levels to practice when new concepts are introduced.
Supplementary Material
Quantum computing (QC) is an exciting and rapidly growing field. However, this is a lack of high-quality and accessible K-12 QC educational resources. To help students develop the critical skills and confidence to contribute to this field, we designed Qupcakery, a puzzle game that introduces players to several core QC concepts (quantum gates, superposition, and measurement). We present preliminary testing results with middle school and high school students. Overall, we find that the game is at an appropriate level for high school students, but middle school students need more levels to practice when new concepts are introduced.
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Index Terms
- Qupcakery: A Puzzle Game that Introduces Quantum Gates to Young Learners
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March 2023
1481 pages
ISBN:9781450394314
DOI:10.1145/3545945
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Published: 03 March 2023
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