What is Difficult in Learning Programming Language Based on Problem-Solving Skills?

Abstract

Problem-solving skills are paramount to university students while learning programming languages. Many researchers have identified a lack of problem-solving skills among university students across various disciplines, but little is known on how certain subjects could ease the acquisition of these skills and vice versa. Educational researchers should focus on exploring the role problem-solving skills could play in preparing students toward standard approaches to learning programming languages. This paper provides an understanding of the difficulties faced by university students while learning programming language using problem-solving skills. The questionnaire used in the study has 32 items categorized into four dimensions of Analysis, Design, Coding and Testing. Data were collected randomly from 113 voluntary participants from Information Technology and Engineering Departments of Near East University, Cyprus. Statistical analysis applied to the data revealed a significant correlation between all the dimensions and existence of a level of difficulties above average on all the dimensions. This research will augment related literary findings and help academicians situate the best practices in teaching problem-solving skills as well as a programming language.