The Impact of Competencies in Mathematics and Beyond on Learning Computer Programming in Higher Education

Abstract

As part of a research project that is aimed at investigating the mechanisms of incorporating emerging technologies into computer programming curriculum, and as a step in generating system requirements to ensure usability and usefulness, this paper reports on a preliminary study that explored the impact of competencies in mathematics on the learning of computer programming in higher education, with a focus on pre-programming Mathematical capabilities, and how they influence the quality of programming skills development when a novice takes programming courses. Content-analysis methodology was applied to investigate particular mathematical expertise that are more relevant than others in the learning of computer programming. The outcome of this study suggested that programming skills is often associated with the ability in problem solving, and that certain types of Mathematics skills affects analytical skills that contributes to the experience of learning how to do computer programing. Besides the syntax and semantics of a programming language, logical and mathematical thinking, numeracy and visualization skills, expertise in algebra and calculus, knowledge in conditional and recursive functions are all essential to the design of functions and procedures during programming activity. Future studies should also focus on how to prioritize the above-mentioned competencies and how they can be cultivated via emerging interactive technologies.