Reducing Cognitive Load in Learning Computer Programming

Authors: Muhammed Yousoof, Mohd Sapiyan, Khaja Kamaluddin

Abstract:

Many difficulties are faced in the process of learning computer programming. This paper will propose a system framework intended to reduce cognitive load in learning programming. In first section focus is given on the process of learning and the shortcomings of the current approaches to learning programming. Finally the proposed prototype is suggested along with the justification of the prototype. In the proposed prototype the concept map is used as visualization metaphor. Concept maps are similar to the mental schema in long term memory and hence it can reduce cognitive load well. In addition other method such as part code method is also proposed in this framework to can reduce cognitive load.

Keywords: Cognitive load, concept maps, working memory, split attention effect, partial code programs.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI): doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1328518

References:

[1] Amy.B et.al (2004)."Personality as a predictor of student success in programming principles". Proceedings of the 7th Annual conference of Southern Association for Informing systems.
[2] Alistair CockBurn & Laurie Willams .The cost and benefits of pair programming. Unpublished Paper on Pair programming.
[3] Clark Ian et.al (2004).Using concept to plan an introductory geology course.Journal of Geoscience Education.May 2004 Issue
[4] Eric Bruilliard & Georges.L.Computer Based Concept mapping- A review of cognitive tool for students. Proceedings of ICEUT 2000 pages 331-338.
[5] In J.Kuljis,L.Baldwin & R.Scoble.Programming aptitude testing as a prediction of learning to program. Proceedings of the 14th Workshop of the psychology of programming interest group.Brunel University,UK
[6] Kinshuk&Lin T(2004).Cognitive profiling towards Formal Adaptive Technologies in Web Based Learning Communities. International Journal of www-based Communities,1(1)103-108(ISSN 1477-8394).
[7] Lin T.,Kinshuk&Patel.A.(2003).Cognitive Trait Model-A supplement to Performance Based Student Models. Proceeding of the International Conference on Computers in Education 2003,Pages 629-632.
[8] Luz M.Quiroga et. al(2004).Reducing Cognitive Load". Proceedings of the 37th Hawaii International conference of systems sciences.
[9] Peter Gerets et.al(2003).Reducing Cognitive Load and Fostering Accquistion examples-Benefits of Category Avoiding Instructional Examples.Proceeding of International Conference.Pages 450-455.
[10] Stuart Garner(2001)." A tool to support the use of part complete solutions in the learning of of Programming". Proceedings of Informing science-2001.
[11] Vekiri,I,&Samson P.(2000).Applying Cognitive Research to the Design of Visualization Tools: Features of Blue Skies-College Edition Software.Proceedings of the Fourth International Conference of the Learning Sciences(pp 106-107).
[12] William Campbell &Ethan Bolker(2002)."Teaching programming by Immersion,Reading and writing".Proceedings of 32nd ASEE/IEEE Frontiers in Education conference.
[13] Ying Xu Wang et.al(2003)." A Layed Reference Model of the Brain". Proceedings of the 2nd International Conference on Cognitive informatics(ICCI'03).