No abstract

Novices should focus both on problem‐solving skills and programming knowledge (syntax and semantics) in learning to program. Most introductory programming courses pay more attention to programming knowledge. This study introduces a PAAM model (Problem Analysis Algorithmic Model) in the teaching–learning process of the introductory programming (IP) course. The model focuses on problem statement requirements (input, output, and process) and problem‐solving skills for novices. A web application was developed to offer the model in the course. Two surveys were conducted to collect the responses of IP students. Semistructured interviews were performed with the IP instructors. The final exam grades of the IP course over the last two semesters were compared to determine the impact of the PAAM model on the students gain. Results show that most students appreciated the model in the teaching–learning process of the course. The model helps students to develop problem‐solving skills (p = .002), understand problem statement inputs (p = .003), process (p = .004), outputs (p = .034), and motivates them to learn programming (p = .031). The application impacts positively on students' behavior and attitude toward completing the programming exercises in the course. Overall, the PAAM approach (11.1%) impacts positively by decreasing the attrition rate (9.9%) in the course when it is compared with the traditional approach (21.0%).

Novice programmers have to focus and learn different programming skills in programming 1 course at the same time. Therefore, they need more support to answer their queries related to the programming domain. This study developed and offered a chatbot in programming 1 course. The chatbot focuses on course details, fundamental programming concepts, and common programming errors. The perception of programming 1 students and instructors regarding the chatbot in programming education were collected through the survey and focus group respectively. The results of the students’ survey revealed that the chatbot supports students in learning programming and common programming errors in the course. The focus group participants agreed that the chatbot provides one-to-one teaching experience to novices. The chatbot serves as a virtual teaching assistant and promotes students-centered learning. The focus group participants also agreed that the chatbot approach provides additional support to students in their learning process of programming domain.