Programmers Aren't Obsolete Yet: A Syllabus for Teaching CS Students to Responsibly Use Large Language Models for Code Generation

TL;DR

This paper emphasizes the importance of teaching computer science students foundational skills to responsibly and effectively use Large Language Models for code generation, ensuring they complement rather than replace core programming knowledge.

Contribution

It proposes a syllabus to integrate LLM usage responsibly into CS education, highlighting the continued relevance of foundational skills.

Findings

LLMs can enhance productivity but require responsible use.

Foundational skills are crucial for effective LLM integration.

A new syllabus framework supports responsible LLM adoption in education.

Abstract

Large Language Models (LLMs) have emerged as powerful tools for automating code generation, offering immense potential to enhance programmer productivity. However, their non-deterministic nature and reliance on user input necessitate a robust understanding of programming fundamentals to ensure their responsible and effective use. In this paper, we argue that foundational computing skills remain crucial in the age of LLMs. We propose a syllabus focused on equipping computer science students to responsibly embrace LLMs as performance enhancement tools. This work contributes to the discussion on the why, when, and how of integrating LLMs into computing education, aiming to better prepare programmers to leverage these tools without compromising foundational software development principles.