Impact of classification of lab assignments and problem solving approach in object oriented programming lab course: A case study

Information systems are growing in both size and complexity. Object orientation has emerged as a dominant paradigm in designing and constructing such large and complex information systems, which is being taught to undergraduate students of Computer Science and Engineering. The use of java technology to develop applications is found preferred one [1]. There exists a knowledge gap between industry expectations and students knowledge. Hence deep learning of java programming is essential attribute to reduce the gap [1]. This paper presents classification of lab assignments as demonstration, Exercises, structured Enquiry type and open ended types with an approach of using conceptual model as intermediate step before writing java code for a given problem statement. This classification of assignments/problem statements move the responsibility from a professor to student where the latter involvement is observed high in achieving the objectives set for each type in classification of assignments, hence helps to meet industry expectations. The conceptual model, drawing a class diagram using standard notations (diagrammatic representations) improves the students understanding of object oriented concepts [7], for a given lab assignment which in-turn eases the student effort in translating the class diagram into program code by following the syntax. The students will be graded during assessment as Grade-S, Grade-A, Grade-B, Grade-C, Grade-D, Grade-E, Grade-F and where Grade-S is highest and Grade-F is lowest. The results of assessment are analyzed for year 2013 and 2014 batches and it is observed that, there is increase in grade A in year 2014 compared to year 2013. The observed change is due to the above said approach. The result analysis of year 2013 and 2012 shows that, the grade F is increased little in results of year 2013, it is due to the current approach where the lab assignments are classified and students are expected to apply the concepts studied effectively and few s- udents unable to follow the approach.