ISEDJ

Information Systems Education Journal

Volume 12

V12 N6 Pages 36-44

November 2014


Evaluating Effectiveness of Pair Programming as a Teaching Tool in Programming Courses


Silvana Faja
University of Central Missouri
Warrensburg, MO 64093, USA

Abstract: This study investigates the effectiveness of pair programming on student learning and satisfaction in introductory programming courses. Pair programming, used in the industry as a practice of an agile development method, can be adopted in classroom settings to encourage peer learning, increase students’ social skills, and enhance student achievement. This study explored students’ perceptions on effectiveness of pair programming and the influence of student’s level of experience with this activity and perceived partner involvement on effectiveness outcomes. Findings suggest that the more students are involved in this activity, the more they enjoy it and the more they learn by collaborating with their partners. When comparing different effectiveness measures, their perceived learning, quality of work, and enjoyment during pair programming was found to be at a higher level than increased productivity outcome.

Keywords: Collaborative Learning, Pair Programming, Programming Course, teamwork

Download this article: ISEDJ - V12 N6 Page 36.pdf


Recommended Citation: Faja, S. (2014). Evaluating Effectiveness of Pair Programming as a Teaching Tool in Programming Courses. Information Systems Education Journal, 12(6) pp 36-44. http://isedj.org/2014-12/ ISSN: 1545-679X. (A preliminary version appears in The Proceedings of ISECON 2013)