Identifying predictors of success for an objects-first CS1

Abstract

The paper reports on an examination of predictors of success for an objects-first course. The predictors considered included prior programming experience, mathematical ability, academic and psychological variables, gender, and measures of student effort. Cognitive and academic factors such as SAT scores and critical thinking ability offered little predictive value when compared to the other predictors of success. Student effort and comfort level were found to be the strongest predictors of success.