Relation between Behavior and Result in Pair Programming: Talk and Work Leads to Success

Abstract

Pair programming , a programming technique conducted by two programmers work together at one work station, has been adopted for learning programming. Although it is known to be effective in various aspects, micro observation of the learning activity, collaboration, has yet to be conducted in relation to the outcome. In this study, behavior in pair programming learning was investigated in terms of verbal communication and programming action, and was compared in relation to the success of problem-solving. Findings are that, in the successful cases, 1) the learners took programming actions more frequently, and 2) the learners took more programming actions immediately after the dialogue. From this, it is suggested that closely-knit dialogue and action can be an indicator of successful problem-solving, and the findings can be applied to a collaborative learning support systems.