CodePractice: Developing Coding Skills Using Social and Adaptive Drill-and-Practice Exercises

Virginia Polytechnic Institute And State University, Blacksburg VA

Investigators

Abstract

Rudimentary programming skills are essential to developing fundamental proficiency in computer science. However, learning programming techniques can be challenging and frustrating for many students. Without interventions to curb these frustrations, introductory computer science courses will suffer from attrition and poor retention rates will follow. Drill-and-practice tools are emerging to help students develop basic programming techniques and improve their confidence. However, there are currently no programming practice systems that actively and adaptively assist students when they require help on exercises. Likewise, the potential for peer learning is currently untapped without effectively leveraging online, social collaboration in practice tools. The novel approach to organically refine learning materials also offers broader implications for using automatic assessment in social eLearning environments. We will study students? behaviors with the system and objectively measure their outcomes. Consequently, our research will offer results associated with a framework for supporting social and adaptive drill-and-practice. Overall, we expect to improve student performance and retention in computer science while contributing to the evolution of instructional technology.