A tool for evaluating computer programs from students

Abstract

Computer science studies are more and more popular, and teachers must face and adapt to the increasing number of students. Whereas small groups allowed more interactions between teachers and students, the resulting overcrowding takes away closeness and forces teachers to spend less time with each student. Therefore, the student can quickly feel submerged and helpless against the difficulty of the course. This paper proposes a solution that aims to reduce drop-out in programming courses. It offers an accurate feedback on the quality of students' Python code to deepen their understanding, together with a playful interface to boost their interest in programming. This solution developed under the name of "METAssistant" has two objectives. It allows students to use it to evaluate their programs and to get an accurate feedback, and teachers to have an overview of the understanding of the matter by their students.