Understanding and Supporting Better Pairings for CS1 Students

Abstract

Introduction to programming courses employ pair programming with benefits to both students and instructors. When selecting their own partners, students without extant support or social networks are at a significant disadvantage relative to well-connected students. The present work will use individual and pair programming activities to create a matching program to suggest effective programming partners to students, with the goal of improving the experience of partner work in introductory CS classes. In doing so, we will explore the relevant matching traits in productive pairs and gain a deeper understanding of (un)productive pair partnerships.