Teaching Programming to Non-Programmers

Part 3: Skills development blog series

This blog series showcases skills development opportunities across schools and colleges.
For part 3, Laura Murray and Dr Lucia Michielin present a one-day free winter school scheduled for 11 January 2024 by CDCS and DDI, aimed at those interested in teaching programming to non-programers.

In recent years, there has been an increase in code-based approaches to data analysis in disciplines in which code has not traditionally been taught. From more traditionally data-based subjects like psychology and medicine to more qualitative subject areas within the humanities a growing number of students and researchers are seeking training on different aspects of embedding code in their analysis. Teaching this kind of cohort requires non-traditional strategies and approaches that may be substantially different from the current standard pedagogy.

Explore inventive methodologies for instructing programming across various disciplines. Engage with proven strategies from the industry, such as rubber-duck debugging and pair programming, investigating their efficacy within educational contexts. Examine in-depth conversations surrounding strategies tailored for large classes and online environments, guaranteeing that your programming courses are not only efficient but also inclusive.

Discovering effective techniques to teach programming in diverse fields is crucial for educators seeking to provide a well-rounded and adaptable educational experience. By delving into established practices like rubber-duck debugging, instructors can enhance problem-solving skills and critical thinking in students. Additionally, the exploration of pair programming sheds light on collaborative learning approaches, fostering teamwork and communication abilities.

Furthermore, the discussion on strategies for large classes and online settings addresses the evolving landscape of education. This examination ensures that educators are equipped with the knowledge and tools to create inclusive and effective programming courses, accommodating various learning styles and environments. Embracing these innovative teaching methods can significantly contribute to the success of programming education across a spectrum of disciplines.

This event offers a platform to delve into diverse aspects of teaching programming across various disciplines, such as psychology, medicine, mathematics, and engineering. Participants will explore industry-proven methods like rubber-duck debugging and pair programming, uncovering their applicability in educational contexts. Emphasis will be placed on effective and efficient teaching strategies for large classes and online environments, fostering inclusivity in programming education. Attendees, including educators, teaching assistants, tutors, and research software engineers, will have the opportunity to share practices and insights through brief lightning talks, promoting networking and the exchange of both strategic and technical knowledge. This event is tailored for those actively engaged in teaching programming across university departments and related programs.

Event Schedule

  • 9:30 – 10:00 - Arrival and refreshments
  • 10:00 – 10:10 - Welcome
  • 10:10 – 10:40 - Pair programming demonstration
  • 10:45 –12:10 - Pair programming talks
  • 12:15 – 13:00 - Lunch
  • 13:00 – 13:40 – Teaching Case Studies
  • 13:45 – 14:25 - Inclusivity in programming
  • 14:30 – 15:10 - Panel Q&A session
  • 15:15 – 16:00 - Lightning talks
  • 16:00 – 18:00 - Drinks reception

See more information here.

NOTE: The event is meant primarily for people who are already actively teaching programming in some capacity. If you are not teaching now, but planning to do so in the future, please make this clear in the application, and you may be invited to join the waiting list if we are oversubscribed.