A SMAC-based Programming Learning Tool: Validating a Novel System Architecture

Abstract

Although SMAC (Social, Mobile, Analytics, Cloud) allows pedagogical innovation due to its ability in expanding communication during the learning process, its exploitation for programming learning has yet to occur. Therefore, this study proposes a novel system architecture for a SMAC-based programming learning tool designed to enhance programming students’ problem-solving and collaborative skills. In evaluating the effectiveness of this architecture, this study conducted multiple two-week controlled experiments involving 71 introductory programming students. The experiment involves administering pre-and post-study surveys and tests to measure the enhancement in the two skills. The overall findings of this study indicated a statistically significant improvement in both the student’s problem-solving ability and collaborative skills. Most importantly, these findings suggest that the synergy of all four SMAC elements in a single programming learning tool has substantial benefits to programming learning.