Implementation of an Automated Programming Lab

Abstract

The most effective methods of learning in programming courses depend on practical exercises. However, preparing and collecting programs manually takes time. Manual grading of programming assignments is also a tedious and error-prone task. This paper describes the implementation of an automated programming lab consisting of devices that would simplify the programming assignment management process, automate grading of programming assignments, and provide real-time feedback as students work to implement solutions to programming projects. The system has been used in actual courses at our university. With the system, instructors were able to assign more homework and provide quicker feedback to students.