Elizabeth Baker
Abstract below...
In September 2014 Computer Networking students will take a
new level 5 module that includes a substantial element of computer
programming. However, in the last 3
years only 3 out of 72 students have opted to take a level 5 programming module
and a substantial number have displayed a clear personal dislike of the
subject. So one of my research concerns
is ‘can these students be encouraged to see the value in programming?’
Much of the published research into
teaching programming either ignores or minimises the role of the students in
the design of new teaching approaches (Pears, et al., 2007). This is, I believe, a mistake; they have much
to tell us about their experience of programming. So, a participatory action research
approach has been adopted (McNiff and Whitehead 2011). Two focus groups were used to gather views
from current finalists (Cousin, 2009). Four themes in particular dominated the
discussion, the usefulness of programming for networking students; negative
experiences of learning programming; indignation at the type of tasks used to
teach programming; and learned helplessness (Seligman, 2006). The findings from these focus groups were fed
directly into the design of an intervention, which took the form of a workshop. Preliminary findings indicated a positive
response to the intervention. Although a
complete analysis of the data gathered has not yet taken place some tentative but
positive answers can be given to the original research questions. My research
also indicates that some students will start the module already suffering from
learned helplessness in relation to programming. Further research must be undertaken in this
area. A new intervention will be
designed to take place during the enrolment week next September before the
students start the new module.
Cousin, G. 2009, Researching Learning
In Higher Education [Electronic Resource]: An Introduction To Contemporary
Methods And Approaches, n.p.: New York : Routledge
McNiff, J., and Whitehead, J., 2010.
You and Your Action Research Project. 3rd Edition London and New York:
Routledge
Pears, A., Seidman, S., Malmi, L.,
Mannila, L., Adams, E., Bennedsen, J., Devlin, M., and Paterson, J. 2007 ‘A
survey of literature on the teaching of introductory programming.’ SIGCSE Bull.
39, 4, 204-223.
Seligman, M., 2006, Learned Optimism.
How to Change your Mind and Your Life. [Electronic Resource] Vintage Books
Random House.
