Changing Perceptions of Programming Among Computer Science Students
Abhijit Shakya · Cornerstone (Minnesota State University, Mankato) · 2004
Many students, who are taking classes offered by the Computer and Information Sciences (CIS) Department, have stated that they dislike programming. Programming is required in many of the entry-level positions in the field of Computer Science. Do student perceptions and opinions change as they gain more experience in the major? What factors influence these perceptions? In the first year of this study, data was collected regarding perceptions among students who were enrolled in courses offered by the CIS Department. When students were asked if they liked to program, about 65% of freshmen and sophomores, and 60% of juniors and seniors responded that they did. When asked if they disliked programming and tried to avoid it, about 20% of freshmen and sophomores, and 30% of juniors and seniors responded yes. This study had been continued so the research team could investigate if the perceptions of these students have changed from one year to the next. If changes have occurred, this study will also identify possible factors that influenced the students during that transition. Surveys were distributed to students enrolled in selected courses offered by the CIS Department at Minnesota State University, Mankato during the spring 2004 semester.