Reducing Cognitive Load in Learning Computer Programming

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.




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 Unpublished Paper on Pair programming.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).