The Effects of Self-Regulated Learning Support on Learners' Task Performance and Cognitive Load in Computer Programing
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abstract
This study explores the effect of self-regulated learning support on learners cognitive load and problem-solving performance, considering cases from well-structured to ill-structured tasks in a computer programing course. Sixty-seven undergraduate students in a computer programing fundamentals course were randomly assigned into one of two groups: (1) experimental group ( N = 34; received self-regulated learning support) and (2) control group ( N = 33). Participants in both groups were asked to solve programing problems using Python over 3weeks, and their cognitive load levels were measured after each week. The results showed that novice learners self-regulated learning skills can be influenced by learning support, which contributes to solving complex problems. The results also suggest that, given the sequence of tasks (i.e., basic and advanced well-structured and ill-structured problems), self-regulated learning support may require time to be effective. The germane load of the experimental group was higher for well-structured problems than that of the control group. Using logistic regression, the two groups were differentiated through different variables measured in this study, which showed a high predictive explanatory power. The results provide implications for designing self-regulated learning support for programing courses, using problem-based learning in association with problem-solving skills, self-regulated learning skills, and cognitive load management.
