Algorithm Perception in the Programming Education: A Metaphor Analysis

Abstract

Algorithm design in programming instruction has a special significance in defining the problem to be solved. In this context, it gains importance that how programmer candidates perceive the algorithm. The aim of this qualitative study was to analyze the perceptions of the students at the Computer Programming Department regarding algorithm by metaphor analysis and to subsume under conceptual categories to the emerging metaphors in terms of common characteristics. The research sample consists of 372 associate degree students, studying in 5 different Computer Programming Department depending on the Kastamonu University in the 2015-2016 academic year. Data was collected with the forms prepared by the researchers and containing the phrase “Algorithms are like ......., because .......”. The data have been resolved and interpreted using the content analysis method. According to the data analysis, it was observed that the Computer Programming department students were developed 63 valid metaphors for the algorithm. Stairs (5.6%, f=6), parents (4.7%, f=5), labyrinth (4.7%, f=5), and teacher (4.7%, f=5) are the more produced metaphors according to the algorithm. In the metaphors developed by the Computer Programming students is more highlighted that algorithms have aspects as a director, guidance (37.4%, f=40) and a systematic structure (34.6%, f=37).