Exploring the Impact of Multiple Representations in Introductory Programming: A Pilot Study
Authors: 
Naaz Sibia, 
Valeria Ramirez Osorio, 
Angela Zavaleta Bernuy, Efthimia Aivaloglou, 
Rutwa Engineer, 
Andrew Petersen, 
Michael Liut, Carolina NobreAuthors Info & Claims
Naaz Sibia, Valeria Ramirez Osorio, Angela Zavaleta Bernuy, Efthimia Aivaloglou, Rutwa Engineer, Andrew Petersen, Michael Liut, Carolina NobreAuthors Info & ClaimsArticle No.: 25, Pages 1 - 2
Abstract
This pilot study explores how visualization strategies, grounded in multiple representations theory, impact novice students’ engagement, and cognitive load during program tracing tasks. Students were were shown a visualization of the three-variable swap problem at the start of an introductory programming course (CS1) at a large public North American research-intensive university. We compared three conditions: interactive multiple representations, Python Tutor (a single-representation tool), and text-only methods. Preliminary results indicate that interactive multiple representations increase engagement for students with prior programming experience, while no significant differences were observed for students without prior experience. These findings suggest that while multiple representations may boost engagement, identifying how to effectively support students of all experience levels and reduce cognitive load requires further study.
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- Exploring the Impact of Multiple Representations in Introductory Programming: A Pilot Study
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Association for Computing Machinery
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Published: 13 November 2024
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Koli Calling '24
Koli Calling '24: 24th Koli Calling International Conference on Computing Education Research
November 12 - 17, 2024
Koli, Finland
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