On Learning How to Program via an Interactive eBook with Adaptive Parsons Problems

Abstract

Traditional computer programming practice, such as writing pseudocode, code tracing, and code writing, can be arduous, time-intensive, and frustrating. But adaptive Parsons problems, which require learners to place mixed-up code blocks in the correct order, are designed to support learners’ individual differences in knowledge acquisition, reduce extraneous cognitive load, and improve affect while learning how to program. These problems modify the difficulty of the current or next problem based on a learner's prior performance and help-seeking behavior. Adaptive Parsons problems are a more interactive way to learn stereotypical solutions to programming problems. Hence, they can help novice programmers build up the kind of mental library of solutions experts have at their disposal when writing code from scratch to solve any number of critical problems related to computing.