Teaching Introduction to Programming in the times of AI: A case study of a course re-design

TL;DR

This paper reviews AI tools in introductory programming education, discusses challenges in course design and assessment, and presents a case study of re-designing a course to effectively incorporate AI technologies.

Contribution

It provides a detailed case study on re-designing a programming course to integrate AI tools, offering guidelines for educators and institutions.

Findings

AI tools enhance programming learning but pose challenges

Course re-design can address AI-related issues effectively

Guidelines for integrating AI into programming education

Abstract

The integration of AI tools into programming education has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, transforming the way programming is taught and learned. This paper provides a review of the state-of-the-art AI tools available for teaching and learning programming, particularly in the context of introductory courses. It highlights the challenges on course design, learning objectives, course delivery and formative and summative assessment, as well as the misuse of such tools by the students. We discuss ways of re-designing an existing course, re-shaping assignments and pedagogy to address the current AI technologies challenges. This example can serve as a guideline for policies for institutions and teachers involved in teaching programming, aiming to maximize the benefits of AI tools while addressing the associated challenges and concerns.