Abstract:

The project "Algorithmically: from problem solving to computer science" is a research-action project funded carried out in the academic year 2022-23 by the Scientific High School “Leonardo da Vinci” (Trento, Italy), in collaboration with the University of Trento.

The goal of the project was to validate the PRIMM (Predict, Run, Investigate, Modify, Make) methodology for teaching programming, which subverts the traditional approach based on early program writing. Instead, students are encouraged to read and understand segments of code before writing their own, emphasizing a "reading before writing" approach.
The teaching experimentation was applied in 5 second classes of the high school , with 4 control group classrooms (190 students and 9 classes).

To understand the effectiveness of this new methodology, the design was a Pre-Test and Post-Test one, with a test aiming at understanding skills and knowledge, and another based on the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory (IMI).

The first iteration of this experimental teaching approach provides promising results but also indicates the need for refining the sample and some methods and procedures. However, there are significant findings:

1. PRIMM methodology proved to be slightly more effective than traditional teaching methods in terms of learning.
2. PRIMM methodology promotes Competence Perception, and its relationship with Competence Perception is confirmed, positive, and significant.
3. Competence Perception correlates with better computer science grades, so PRIMM might bring to higher marks in Computer Sciences.

The PRIMM approach’s integration into computer science teaching thus appears promising, but additional research and iterations are needed to optimize its effectiveness.

Keywords:

Stem education, teaching, learning, coding, computer science, programming education, secondary education.