Should computer science examinations contain “programming” problems?
Donald J. Bagert · 1988
The purpose of many computer science courses is to enhance the programming skills of the student, including the ability to design and implement appropriate algorithms. In such courses, examinations should therefore contain problems which test for algorithmic skills. In particular, there should be problems which require the student to write small sections of code, usually in the form of a subprogram. Students often perceive these questions as “programming” problems; however, it is more accurate to state that these are algorithmic problems, since such questions primarily measure algorithmic skills. In addition, since such exam problems address topics which are a part of the course content (e.g. stacks, queues, and tables in a data structures class), the student's knowledge of these topics is also tested and reinforced.