Exposing the programming process

Abstract

One of the most important goals of an introductory programming course is that the students learn a systematic approach to the development of computer programs. Revealing the programming process is an important part of this. However, textbooks do not address the issue -probably because the textbook medium is static and, therefore, ill-suited to expose the process of programming. We have found that process recordings in the form of captured, narrated programming sessions are a simple, cheap, and efficient way of providing the revelation. We identify seven different elements of the programming process for which process recordings are a valuable communication media in order to enhance the learning process. Student feedback indicates both high learning outcome and superior learning potential compared to traditional classroom teaching. © 2008 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.