TY - GEN
T1 - Scaffolding Computer Programming Learning for Novice Learners Using LLM as a Conversational Resource
AU - Wong, Tak Lam
AU - Cheung, Simon K.S.
AU - Zhang, Frank
N1 - Publisher Copyright:
© The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2026.
PY - 2026
Y1 - 2026
N2 - Learning computer programming presents significant challenges for novice learners, particularly in grasping abstract concepts and syntax simultaneously. This study explores the use of scaffolding through a WebQuest framework integrated with Large Language Models (LLMs) to support programming education. LLMs are used as a conversational resource, which allows live interaction with learners, contrary to the traditional static Web resources. A case study was conducted in an undergraduate computer programming course, where students engaged in a structured WebQuest activity supported by ChatGPT. The activity guided learners through inquiry-based tasks, coding exercises, and a mini-project challenge. Survey results indicated that the WebQuest format improved comprehension, confidence, and engagement, while ChatGPT provided personalized, real-time support that enhanced the learning experience. Students reported that the conversational nature of LLMs made programming concepts more accessible and learning more interactive. These findings suggest that combining scaffolded inquiry with AI-driven dialogue can significantly enhance programming education for beginners.
AB - Learning computer programming presents significant challenges for novice learners, particularly in grasping abstract concepts and syntax simultaneously. This study explores the use of scaffolding through a WebQuest framework integrated with Large Language Models (LLMs) to support programming education. LLMs are used as a conversational resource, which allows live interaction with learners, contrary to the traditional static Web resources. A case study was conducted in an undergraduate computer programming course, where students engaged in a structured WebQuest activity supported by ChatGPT. The activity guided learners through inquiry-based tasks, coding exercises, and a mini-project challenge. Survey results indicated that the WebQuest format improved comprehension, confidence, and engagement, while ChatGPT provided personalized, real-time support that enhanced the learning experience. Students reported that the conversational nature of LLMs made programming concepts more accessible and learning more interactive. These findings suggest that combining scaffolded inquiry with AI-driven dialogue can significantly enhance programming education for beginners.
KW - large language models
KW - programming education
KW - Scaffolding
KW - WebQuest
UR - https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105023587220
U2 - 10.1007/978-981-95-4499-8_9
DO - 10.1007/978-981-95-4499-8_9
M3 - Conference contribution
AN - SCOPUS:105023587220
SN - 9789819544981
T3 - Communications in Computer and Information Science
SP - 98
EP - 107
BT - Technology in Education. Smart and Innovative Learning - International Conference on Technology in Education, ICTE 2025, Proceedings
A2 - Cheung, Simon K. S.
A2 - Liu, Xiaojun
A2 - Xu, Guoai
A2 - Kwok, Lam-For
T2 - 8th International Conference on Technology in Education, ICTE 2025
Y2 - 10 December 2025 through 12 December 2025
ER -