Competency based learning framework of Introductory Programming course to enhance learner’s motivation and skills

Author(s) : Muhammad Usama Ijaz1, Maida Shahid2 & Talha Waheed3*

Abstract:

Computers have revolutionized business, education, government, commerce, and research, creating rapidly expanding career opportunities in computer science and related fields. As a result of these technological breakthroughs, computer science-related jobs are growing at a fast pace. However, computer science graduates have a high unemployment rate despite a significant need for computing and technology experts. This high level of unemployment is due to the discrepancies between the concepts taught in computer science degree programs and the skills required in the software industry. To fill this skill gap, Computing Machinery (ACM) and IEEE Computer Society (IEEE-CS) have devised guidelines for a new computing curriculum of BS (Computer sciences/IT) 1st semester in 2020 that has shifted the trend from Knowledge-based Learning to Competency-based learning. Many researchers have discussed skills and competencies, but they are not designing the programming courses by specifically targeting the skills needed in the IT industry. Therefore, this research aims to enhance the skills of students to match the skills needed in the IT industry by following competency-based learning among BS students. We have designed the introductory programming course based on three mega competencies that the software industries value. These are further divided into 8 mini competencies and sixty-two mini competencies to be easily taught in a 2-3 hour lecture duration. We also present our teaching experience with undergraduate computer science students at the University of Engineering and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan. Results show that competency-based learning had a positive impact on increasing students' motivation and improving their programming skills.

Keywords: Competency-based learning, competencies, 4C/ID model, programming skills, Undergraduate computing course, teaching framework