Collaboration and the Importance for Novices in Learning Java Computer Programming

摘要

The authors propose that a correlation exists between collaboration and success by novices when learning computer programming. Research in an introductory course was conducted that focused on answering several questions: At what time in their learning Java programming and algorithmic problem solving, would a student benefit best by collaboration? At what time during the problem solving process would the learner benefit greatest by collaboration? Would the student benefit greater by collaborating with 1 student in the class, a group, or an expert mentor/coach? What cognitive and affective strategies are used during various types of collaboration? Does collaboration increase problem solving performance by females?rnThis research will advance fundamental knowledge of teaching and learning of computer science. It will further the understanding of problem solving and strategies used in learning computer programming and whether collaboration is important.