Teaching programming

Exploring pedagogies for teaching programming in school

This approach expands on the approach Use-Modify-Create. This is when a learner runs (uses) an existing program to see what it does, then modifies it, and then when able, creates a new project of their own.

PRIMM: A structured approach to teaching programming

PRIMM is one approach that can help teachers structure lessons in programming.  PRIMM stands for Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make.

Image credit: United Kingdom Department of Education

A continuum of scaffolding: from copying code to tinkering

This simple model is presented as a linear continuum of instructional approaches. The continuum includes: copying code, targeted tasks, shared programming, guided exploration, project creation, and tinkering.

Ten quick tips for teaching programming

Tip 1: Remember that there is no geek gene

Tip 2: Use peer instruction

Tip 3: Use live coding

Tip 4: Have students make predictions

Tip 5: Use pair programming

Tip 6: Use worked examples with labelled subgoals

Tip 7: Stick to one language

Tip 8: Use authentic tasks

Tip 9: Remember that novices are not experts

Tip 10: Don't just code

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A-Z Handbook on Teaching Introductory Programming

This book (accessed online using the 'look inside' feature or purchased in hard copy) provides a comprehensive guide to programming for all levels. It describes a range of effective teaching strategies.

How we teach computing

12 pedagogy principles

Code tracing

Code tracing is a well-established approach to help learners develop their program comprehension.
It involves reading and analysing code, before running it to predict its outcome.

Using worked examples supports novices to develop their programming practice

Worked examples demonstrate an ‘expert’ solution to a problem and are used in many subjects to support novices, who use the examples as blueprints for solving new but related problems.