CodeTripping

This study is a preliminary case study examining the use of a free Web Development learning platform in order to en-deepen and facilitate further knowledge in App Development beginners. The use of CodeTrip.gr was examined with regard to perceived learning outcomes and effect on the need for cognition from the viewpoint of undergraduate non-major students with basic Web Engineering and programming skills. A didactic intervention including CodeTrip was conducted with a randomized sample of 18 undergraduate students, who were asked during the tool introduction and after doing the course, using qualitative analysis and validated items from technology and media effects research. The results are promising and support the idea that the user interface of the tool adds to the learning of the students since they show higher need for cognition scores and better self-evaluation after its use. Generalization of results is limited due to the small sample size. Future work includes the validation of the questionnaire with a bigger sample.