An overview on students' understanding and adoption of 21st century learning methods in computer programming course

Abstract

The term 21st century learning is commonly used to describe several core competencies such as critical thinking and problem-solving skills embedded in student-centered learning approach adopted in schools and universities. This paper gives an overview on such approach adopted in teaching computer programming course for undergraduate level at Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. These approaches include active and meaningful learning, and use of current technology and applications in both learning and assessment. Moreover, we investigate the perception of 53 students on this course in a survey, with focus on their understanding of the course contents, and their adoption on the new 21at century approaches in learning. From survey conducted, among the findings includes that the students firmly believe hands- on practice are more effective in helping them comprehend the course better. They also suggest that the current approach on 21st century learning adopted are very appropriate for the course. Besides, 28% of respondents suggest that the use of technology in teaching and learning of computer programming course is in fact very helpful.