Correlates of Success in Introductory Programming: A Study with Middle School Students

• DOI: 10.5539/jel.v5n2p73
• Publication Date: 2016-03-17T02:54:48Z
• Authors: Yizhou Qian; James D. Lehman
• Keywords: Computer programming; Affect

<p>The demand for computing professionals in the workplace has led to increased attention computer science education, and introductory courses have been introduced at different levels of education. This study investigated relationship between gender, academic performance non-programming subjects, programming learning among middle school students with no prior experience who took an course. We found that girls performed as well or even better than boys high-ability Chinese students. However, we that, instead students’ differences were explained by their subjects. Students’ math ability was strongly related performance, English best predictor success these Findings confirm previous studies shown a program, but unexpected. While this may be specific whose first language is not English, aspects native pose hidden barriers might affect all programming.</p>