Challenges Faced by Students Towards Learning Computer Programming Courses in Uganda Universities

Abstract

Computer programming is a core components important to the curriculum of Computer Science & Engineering, Information Technology, Electronic Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering and other studies, Programming is also required in most of the fields of study including Science, Mathematics, and Engineering at tertiary levels. However, the subject is considered, complex, difficult and classified as part of the seven major challenges in computing education. In this research, a study was conducted to investigate challenges faced by students towards learning computer programming courses in Uganda Universities. The main objective of this study was: Identify the major challenges facing students while learning Computer Programming Courses in Uganda Universities. This thesis consist of five (5) chapters, in chapter 1: an introduction has been given, chapter 2: consist the literature review, Chapter 3: consist of methodology, chapter 4: consist of analysis whereas chapter 5: concludes to the thesis with findings and recommendation. The study involved 105 respondents from student’s population of final year students in three(3) universities looking at computer science domain only. In specific from Computer Science & Engineering, Information Technology, and Software Engineering. During the study, we mapped out their opinions of learners by considering programming skills, methods used in teaching and how to improve the learning of the subject. As results, we point out from statistical analysis that the majority of the respondents has low opinion to identification of the major challenges facing students while learning computer programming. On the other hand, the majority of the respondents disagreed that the methods most teachers follow in teaching computer programming courses need to be changed. In addition, majority of students agreed that practical lessons, hands-on projects were very helpful for them to learn programming. The major factor influencing students’ ability to programming that lecturers do not provide enough content. Finally, the researcher provided means on the how to improve on the learning of computer programming courses.