Abstract
Previous studies have proposed many indicators to assess the effect of student engagement in learning and academic achievement but have not yet been clearly articulated. In addition, while student engagement tracking systems have been designed, they rely on the log data but not on performance data. This paper presents results of a non-machine learning model developed using ongoing formative assessment scores as indicators of student engagement. Visualisation of the classification tree results is employed as student engagement indicators for instructors to observe and intervene with students. The results of this study showed that ongoing assessment is related to student engagement and subsequent final programming exam performance and possible to identify students at-risk of failing the final exam. Finally, our study identified students impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. These were students who attended the final programming exam in the semester 2019-2020 and who scored well in formative assessments. Based on these results we present a simple student engagement indicator and its potential application as a student progress monitor for early identification of students at risk.
Highlights
Computer programming is a fundamental course in computer science and IT curricula and offered to students from other streams
The results of this study showed that ongoing assessment is related to student engagement and subsequent final programming exam performance and possible to identify students at-risk of failing the final exam
The final course grade is calculated based on scores secured in a final exam and bonus points obtained via formative assessment tasks and lecture attendance (Veerasamy, 2020)
Summary
Computer programming is a fundamental course in computer science and IT curricula and offered to students from other streams. Most of these engagement monitoring systems rely on student demographic and or learning management system access data but not on performance data. The anecdotal evidence from our teaching staff in computer programming has suggested that, on average only 65% of students enrolled attend the final exam. 77% of students who attended the final exam pass the course. It is offered once a year to students from different disciplines This course is presented in English and the assessment tasks are delivered and graded by the ViLLE-learning management system. The final exam is a hurdle and student must secure at least 50% to pass the course. The final course grade is calculated based on scores secured in a final exam and bonus points obtained via formative assessment tasks (homework and demo) and lecture attendance (Veerasamy, 2020)
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