Programming learners' perceptions of interactive computer tutors and human teachers

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2020

Abstract

People often learn programming in face-to-face courses or from online tutorials. Interactive computer tutors-systems that provide learning content interactively-are becoming more common in online tools such as those teaching computer programming. Studies have shown that teachers, interactive computer tutors, and the combination of both are efficient and effective in teaching programming. However, there is limited understanding of the comparative perspectives of those learning from these two different sources. We conducted an exploratory study using semi-structured interviews and recruited 20 participants with programming experience from both teachers and interactive computer tutors. Speaking with our participants, we surfaced factors that learners like and dislike about the two learning resources and discussed the strengths and weaknesses between the two. Based on our findings, we discuss implications for designs that programming educators and interactive computer tutor developers can use to improve their teaching effectiveness.

Identifier

85090474551 (Scopus)

Publication Title

International Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning

External Full Text Location

https://doi.org/10.3991/ijet.v15i09.12445

e-ISSN

18630383

ISSN

18688799

First Page

123

Last Page

142

Issue

9

Volume

15

Grant

1657160

Fund Ref

National Science Foundation

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