MasterMind : A Predictor of Computer Programming Aptitude

摘要

For two semesters, the authors have tested CS1 introductory students on their ability to play the MasterMind game at the beginning of the semester and compared those scores with in class programming test scores. The resulting correlations suggest that this game can be used as part of a computer programming aptitude test. This aptitude test could be used to advise potential students or employees about their probable success as programmers. Our survey of the literature yielded many programming aptitude tests with correlations lower than ours of 0.6; we are unique in using a game as an aptitude test.