Teacher views on programming teaching

Abstract

The aim of this study is to evaluate the processes of programming teaching in the context of Information Technologies and Software course. In the study where qualitative research method was adopted, teachers' answers to open-ended questions were subjected to content analysis and common themes were created. Within this scope, nine Information Technology Teachers graduated from different programs, working in different regions and different school types have answered open-ended questions. Teachers defined their knowledge as intermediate and above-sufficient in terms of block-based programming tools, and expressed themselves as beginner or not competent, especially for physical programming environments. There were both positive and negative responses for teaching computer science at an early age. Similarly, there are both positive and negative views on Information Network in Education Activity Books and Coding Guide. The number of students per computer is the most important problem raised regarding the instructional process. According to the opinions reported in terms of students, students are uninterested to the course and they do not have computers at home for practicing. The teachers stated that there is a need for teaching material for a more effective teaching process and laboratory conditions need to be improved.