Optimization of a Cooperative Programming Learning System by Using a Constructivist Approach

Abstract

This work describes a cooperative programming learning system (CPLS) based on a novel constructivist approach. This system embeds various constructivist elements within functions to support each phase of the information process that allows students to construct programming skills through knowledge, tasks, and assessment domains. The CPLS comprises a discussion forum, programming editing forum, design forum with structure charts, project management, project guidance, performance demonstration, and peer assessment models. Effectiveness of the proposed system is demonstrated based on an experiment involving 54 undergraduate students in a private university in Taiwan. Learning effectiveness is analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficients. Analytical results indicate that students using this CPLS more frequently could learn programming skills more easily. Efforts are underway to incorporate more pedagogical models in the proposed system, as well as improve the system interface and functions.