Development and validation of a computer science self-efficacy scale for CS0 courses and the group analysis of CS0 student self-efficacy

A 21-item self-efficacy scale was developed to measure perceptions of capability associated with success in CS0 students. Data from 377 subjects enrolled in CS0 breadth-first courses over three years were used to assess the reliability and construct validity of the instrument. A principal factor analysis, with Varimax rotation, produced a six factor solution that closely aligned with the constructs of Bandura´s (1986) self-efficacy model. The self-efficacy group analysis used participant factor scores that were calculated by adding the sum of Likert-type responses to items associated with each of the six derived factors. Subjects received a success, no-success designation based on final course grade. Significant differences were found between the factor scores of: success, no-success groups; males and females; males and females in success group; and males in success, no-success groups.