Engaging Programming Students Through Simpler User Interfaces

Abstract

We used line_explorer, a novel programming instructional tool to administer tests, which involved assigning a math problem based on a programming concept (loops) and the accompanying instructions for solving it to students. There were two display options for the instructions: the first provided all instructional information at once, while the other displayed the instructional information in phases. Findings from the study confirmed that an interface can affect the comfort level of the user, and thus can influence the effectiveness of the tool. Results from the research will aid in identifying parameters that need to be improved or adapted to line_explorer and other programming instructional tools, to encourage better comprehension of programming concepts, as well as improve the willingness of students to use these instructional tools.