In Support of Pair Programming in the Introductory Computer Science Course |
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| Authors: | Laurie Williams Eric Wiebe Kai Yang Miriam Ferzli Carol Miller |
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| Institution: | West Chester University of Pennsylvania |
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| Abstract: | A formal pair programming experiment was run at North Carolina to empirically assess the educational efficacy of the technique in a CS1 course. Results indicate that students who practice pair programming perform better on programming projects and are more likely to succeed by completing the class with a C or better. Student pairs are more self-sufficient which reduces their reliance on the teaching staff. Qualitatively, paired students demonstrate higher order thinking skills than students who work alone. These results are supportive of pair programming as a collaborative learning technique. |
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