Fostering Novice Programmers: Growth in Skill and Satisfaction Through Heterogenous Grouping (Poster 23)

• In Event: Thursday Poster Session 2:30 pm
  In Poster Session: Learning and Motivation in Social and Cultural Contexts 1

Abstract

Programming learning has gained growth attention in recent years due to rapid technological advancements, increased job opportunities, and its association with crucial skill development. Collaboration is widely used as an effective instructional tool in programming education. This study explores individual programming learning within heterogeneous groups in an introductory programming course. We first employed an innovative algorithm-based programming method to create heterogeneous groups and then investigated students’ perceived programming skill development, academic achievement, and satisfaction of self and group performance within these heterogeneous groups. The results revealed significant effects of time and prior programming experience. The findings of this study contribute to the advancement of inclusive and equitable collaborative learning environments, ultimately improving students’ programming abilities in introductory programming courses.

Authors

• Zhiru Sun, University of Southern Denmark

• Marco Chiarandini, University of Southern Denmark