The core guided discovery approach to acquiring programming skills

Abstract

The CORE approach is a design method for constructing learning environments based on principles derived from studies of language and cognitive development. The method has been applied so far to the design of learning environments for acquiring programming skills. This approach is in direct contrast to traditional didactic, rule based approaches where instructions are first given, and practice to implement these instructions follows. The CORE approach, by contrast, engages the student as an active problem solver from the very beginning. The central principle is to present the user not with abstract rules to be learned but with concrete examples to be understood. These key examples are followed by a series of questions and feedback answers which allow the learner to clarify and extend their understanding. The other two major features of the method are to set a clear context for each learning session, and to get the learners to express and reflect on their knowledge at the end of each session. A computer aided learning environment for Pascal has been developed for IBM PC compatible machines. This was used with groups of students for an extended period of time. The students' assessment of the CORE Pascal learning system as an effective and enjoyable learning environment was very positive.