Improving the evaluation of programming courses

Distance learning relies upon communication infrastructure to link knowledge providers and requesters who are in two different locations. Several technologies, such as radios, televisions, the Internet, and others, exist through which synchronous or asynchronous distance learning can be pursued. Although new technologies solve the problem of physical separation, issues related to the evaluation of the learners remain problematic. This study proposes an approach for use in Web-based distance learning to evaluate the learning performance of students exclusively on programming courses. Two systems on accelerating online examination and semiautomatically grading assignments in programming courses are also presented. The proposed method allows students, using a Web browser, to take examinations and submit their programming assignments online. Students can immediately obtain their grades. This system was evaluated at Chung Yuan Christian University (CYCU) in the 2002 spring and fall semesters in three programming classes. The evaluations were very positive.