The impact of a large language model-based programming learning environment on students’ motivation and programming ability

Attention to programming education from K-12 to higher education has been growing with the aim of fostering students’ programming ability. This ability involves employing appropriate algorithms and computer codes to solve problems and can be enhanced through practical learning. However, in a formal...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Education and information technologies Vol. 30; no. 6; pp. 8109 - 8138
Main Authors: Choi, Seongyune, Kim, Hyeoncheol
Format: Journal Article
Language:English
Published: New York Springer US 01.04.2025
Springer Nature B.V
Subjects:
Adaptive learning
Algorithms
Class Size
Computer Appl. in Social and Behavioral Sciences
Computer Science
Computers and Education
Education
Educational Environment
Educational Technology
Elementary Secondary Education
Information Systems Applications (incl.Internet)
Large language models
Programming
Psychological Needs
Quasiexperimental Design
Students
User Interfaces and Human Computer Interaction
Self-determination theory
Large language models
Programming education
Motivation
Programming ability
ISSN:1360-2357, 1573-7608
Online Access:Get full text
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Summary:Attention to programming education from K-12 to higher education has been growing with the aim of fostering students’ programming ability. This ability involves employing appropriate algorithms and computer codes to solve problems and can be enhanced through practical learning. However, in a formal educational setting, it is challenging to provide personalized support to students during their practice owing to limited teacher availability and large class sizes. The integration of large language model-based programming learning environments (LPLEs) is a promising approach to this issue as this setting supports adaptive learning by providing feedback on student codes and responses to questions with human-like interactions. However, a research gap exists regarding the efficacy of LPLEs. To address this gap, this study integrated an LPLE for first-year high school students in South Korea engaged in learning programming for the first time as part of the national curriculum. We examined the impact of the LPLE using a mixed-methods approach with a quasi-experimental design through the lens of self-determination theory. We also investigated students’ learning behaviors within the LPLE and their perceptions of how specific elements of the LPLE satisfy their basic psychological needs. The results provide evidence that the LPLE supports students’ basic psychological needs, enhances autonomous motivation, and improves programming ability. Based on these findings, implications regarding effective utilization and development of the LPLE are discussed from a theoretical and practical perspective.
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ISSN:1360-2357
1573-7608
DOI:10.1007/s10639-024-13107-x