LLM-Enhanced Learning Environments for CS: Exploring Data Structures and Algorithms with Gurukul
In this Innovative Practice full paper, we introduce Gurukul, an innovative coding platform designed to support teaching Data Structures and Algorithm (DSA) course by integrating advanced Large Language Models (LLMs). LLMs have emerged as powerful tools in Computer Science Education (CSEd), offering...
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| Published in: | Proceedings - Frontiers in Education Conference pp. 1 - 9 |
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| Main Authors: | , |
| Format: | Conference Proceeding |
| Language: | English |
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IEEE
13.10.2024
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| ISSN: | 2377-634X |
| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Abstract | In this Innovative Practice full paper, we introduce Gurukul, an innovative coding platform designed to support teaching Data Structures and Algorithm (DSA) course by integrating advanced Large Language Models (LLMs). LLMs have emerged as powerful tools in Computer Science Education (CSEd), offering unparalleled opportunities for enhancing student comprehension and engagement. However, their use in educational settings presents challenges, including tendencies toward hallucination, contextual inaccuracies, and the risk of undermining critical thinking by providing explicit solutions. To address these challenges, and to explore how specialized LLMs can bolster learner engagement, we present Gurukul, a platform featuring dual innovations: Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and Guardrails. Gurukul offers a hands-on practice feature where students can solve DSA problems within a code editor, supported by a dynamically Guardrailed LLM that prevents the delivery of explicit solutions. Additionally, the platform's study feature utilizes RAG, drawing from OpenDSA as a trusted source, to ensure accurate and contextually relevant information is provided. To assess the platform's effectiveness, we conducted a User Study with students, and a User Expert Review with faculty from a U.S. public state university specializing in DSA courses. Our analysis of student usage patterns and perceptions, along with insights from instructors, reveal that Gurukul positively impacted student engagement and learning in DSA, demonstrating the potential of specialized LLMs to enhance educational outcomes in this field. |
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| AbstractList | In this Innovative Practice full paper, we introduce Gurukul, an innovative coding platform designed to support teaching Data Structures and Algorithm (DSA) course by integrating advanced Large Language Models (LLMs). LLMs have emerged as powerful tools in Computer Science Education (CSEd), offering unparalleled opportunities for enhancing student comprehension and engagement. However, their use in educational settings presents challenges, including tendencies toward hallucination, contextual inaccuracies, and the risk of undermining critical thinking by providing explicit solutions. To address these challenges, and to explore how specialized LLMs can bolster learner engagement, we present Gurukul, a platform featuring dual innovations: Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and Guardrails. Gurukul offers a hands-on practice feature where students can solve DSA problems within a code editor, supported by a dynamically Guardrailed LLM that prevents the delivery of explicit solutions. Additionally, the platform's study feature utilizes RAG, drawing from OpenDSA as a trusted source, to ensure accurate and contextually relevant information is provided. To assess the platform's effectiveness, we conducted a User Study with students, and a User Expert Review with faculty from a U.S. public state university specializing in DSA courses. Our analysis of student usage patterns and perceptions, along with insights from instructors, reveal that Gurukul positively impacted student engagement and learning in DSA, demonstrating the potential of specialized LLMs to enhance educational outcomes in this field. |
| Author | Rachha, Ashwin Seyam, Mohammed |
| Author_xml | – sequence: 1 givenname: Ashwin surname: Rachha fullname: Rachha, Ashwin email: ashwinr@vt.edu organization: Virginia Tech,Department of Computer Science,Blacksburg,USA – sequence: 2 givenname: Mohammed surname: Seyam fullname: Seyam, Mohammed email: seyam@vt.edu organization: Virginia Tech,Department of Computer Science,Blacksburg,USA |
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| Snippet | In this Innovative Practice full paper, we introduce Gurukul, an innovative coding platform designed to support teaching Data Structures and Algorithm (DSA)... |
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| SubjectTerms | AI in Education ChatGPT Codes Computer science education Data models Data structures Education Encoding Guardrails Large language models Retrieval augmented generation Reviews Technological innovation |
| Title | LLM-Enhanced Learning Environments for CS: Exploring Data Structures and Algorithms with Gurukul |
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