Investigating the Effectiveness of Learning Data Structure and Algorithm (DSA) Programming using Augmented Reality

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has paved the way for rapid technological advancements, bringing about significant changes in teaching and learning methods. Augmented Reality (AR), an emerging technology, has emerged as an effective approach to improve the user experience and comprehension by providing a realistic view of concepts data structure objects. Educators have been actively working to transition from traditional or conventional learning styles to the process of learning using augmented reality application in order to improve the effectiveness of the level education system. This transition aims to improve individual students' learning, motivation, and facilitate more effective teamwork and group cooperation. One crucial course for computer science students is Data Structure and Algorithm (DSA), which serves as a prerequisite for several other courses. DSA poses challenges as it provides crucial concepts for programmers in efficiently handling data. A solid foundation in data structure and algorithm influences programmers able to efficiently write and develop cost for the effective solutions. However, many computer science students, especially those lacking a strong programming background, struggle to grasp the concepts of algorithm in DSA. This difficulty in understanding DSA concepts often leads to apprehension among students, making them hesitant to pursue a career as programmers after graduation. This research aims to address these challenges and has identified several objectives to achieve its goal. The objectives include analyzing and designing application features that attract students to learn DSA in an interactive manner, developing an AR application that facilitates user-application interaction, and investigating the effectiveness of the AR application in terms of usability, acceptability during the DSA learning process.