Research on mental model representations developed by programmers during parallel program comprehension is important for informing and advancing teaching methods including model-based learning and visualizations. The goals of the research presented here were to determine: how the mental models of programmers change and develop as they learn…

Background and Context: Feedback on one's progress is essential to new programming language learners, particularly in out-of-classroom settings. Though many study materials offer assessment mechanisms, most do not examine the accuracy of the feedback they deliver, nor give evidence on its validity. Objective: We investigate the potential use of a…

Real-time collaborative programming (RCP), which allows multiple programmers to work concurrently on the same codebase with changes instantly visible to all participants, has garnered considerable popularity in higher education. Despite this trend, little work has rigorously examined how undergraduates engage in collaborative programming when…

Computational Thinking (CT) has evolved as an essential competency for K-12 students, and programming practices are recognized as the key way to facilitate CT development. However, most studies of CT development in middle graders have focused on visual programming, lacking evidence to demonstrate the effectiveness of Python programming. Therefore,…

Background: Conventional reflective learning methodologies in programming education often lack structured guidance and individualised feedback, limiting their pedagogical effectiveness. Whilst computational thinking (CT) offers a systematic problem-solving framework with decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithm design, its…

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly emerged as a powerful tool with the potential to enhance learning environments. However, effective use of new technologies in education requires a good understanding of the technology and good design for its use. Generative AI such as ChatGPT requires particularly well-designed instructions due to its ease…

Educational games have gained widespread interest among teachers and researchers across various fields due to their capacity to engage students, foster active participation, and improve learning outcomes. In the context of computer programming, which demands significant cognitive effort, the use of educational games has grown substantially. While…

This paper describes the development of a training module to improve students' individual online behaviors. We developed this module to integrate cyber hygiene concepts into a hands-on learning activity where students develop and secure a mobile web application using the Salesforce Developer tool. This new module aims to prepare the next…

Purpose: This study investigates the impact of AI-assisted pair programming on undergraduate students' intrinsic motivation, programming anxiety, and performance, relative to both human-human pair programming and individual programming approaches. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was conducted over two academic years (2023-2024) with 234…

Introduction: Computer Science Education does not have a universally defined set of concepts consistently covered in all introductory courses (CS1). One approach to understanding the concepts covered in CS1 is to ask educators. In 2004, Nell Dale did just this. She also collected their perceptions on challenging topics to teach. Dale mused how the…

The purposes of the current study were to examine the effectiveness of the multimedia computer-based lessons on programming with Scratch in Technology integrated with the TGT cooperative learning technique based on the 80/80 efficiency criterion, to compare the learning achievement of Grade 7 students between those taught using multimedia…

The impact of cognitive biases, particularly biased self-assessment, on learning outcomes and decision-making in higher education is of great significance. This study delves into the confluence of cognitive biases and user experience in spreadsheet programming as a crucial IT skill across various academic disciplines. Through a quantitative…

Mastering SQL programming skills is fundamental in computer science education, and Online Judging Systems (OJS) play a critical role in automatically assessing SQL codes, improving the accuracy and efficiency of evaluations. However, these systems are vulnerable to manipulation by students who can submit "cheating codes" that pass the…

Context: Introductory programming courses often face high dropout and failure rates, a challenge widely addressed in computing education research. Collaborative methods, such as group work and pair programming, have been proposed as potential solutions, as they are believed to enhance students' study motivation. Objective: This article provides a…

In Computer Science (CS) education, understanding factors contributing to students' programming difficulties is crucial for effective learning support. By identifying specific issues students face, educators can provide targeted assistance to help them overcome obstacles and improve learning outcomes. While identifying sources of struggle, such as…