The impact of Memory Transfer Language (MTL) on reducing misconceptions in teaching programming to novices

Abstract

Despite the fact that programming is at the heart of computer science, it is argued that even at its simplest level it is a difficult subject to teach and learn. For any new learner programming concepts are abstract and confusing. As teaching programming continues to be a daunting task, this article revisits common challenges inherent in teaching computer programming to novices. Further, Memory Transfer Language (MTL) as used to teach programming is introduced and demonstrated. Different kinds of misconceptions in programming and their associated bugs are analysed. An experiment using MTL to teach programming was carried out, using error-counts in examination scripts from two groups of students, one instructed using MTL and the other through the conventional approach. Results indicated a highly significant statistical difference (p = 0) between the two groups, showing that MTL can help novices avoid common programming misconceptions and reduce the errors they make. This shows that if programming is taught using MTL, comprehension is enhanced.

Effects of using problem-solving guide and explanatory support in program visualization tool on reducing students’ misconceptions in learning data structure concepts

“…Most students relied mainly on memorization of data structures principles and lacked the practical skills necessary to apply plan and implement the data structures programs. Studies show that teaching programming using program visualization (PV) tools that actively engage learners help reduce student's misconceptions in learning to program and hence improves students programing comprehension [41]- [46].…”

“…But they differ in terms of scope, design and use. According Bergin et al, [46]. PV tools focus on the graphical representation of an executing program and its data.…”

“…AVs on other hand show operations fundamental to an algorithm, as opposed to just code and data. Despite the significant differences between program and algorithm animation systems, both cases, each tool is being used to visualize the dynamic execution of a static description [46].…”

“…To ensure that PV help students clearly understand data structure concepts earlier studies have recommended the designed PV tools to ensure that (i) they provide resources that help learners interpret the graphical representation. (ii) Provides supportive explanation that will help map a visualization to the underlying algorithm it is designed to represent (iii) Ensure that learners are provided dynamic feedback on their activities rather static ones (iv) Complement visualizations with explanations for better understanding [43], [46], [47]. This studiy aimed at examining the effects of using problem-solving guide and explanatory support within PV tool on reducing students' misconceptions in learning data structure concepts.…”