Programming in Pairs in High Schools

Abstract

Extreme programming (XP) is a new style of software development focusing on excellent applications of programming tecniques, clear communication, and team work, which gives unimaginable results. A major practice of Extreme programming is Pair Programming. There are two programmers working side by side at the same computer, collaborating on the same analysis, the same design, implementation and test. Proponents of pair programming argue that programs produced by pairs are of higher quality, with less errors, better design than those produced by one programmer. And they are made in the shortest time possible as well. We think that pair programming model has also been found to be beneficial for students. Initial quantitative and qualitative results demonstrate that the use of pair programming in the computer science classroom enhances student learning and satisfaction. We explore the nature of pair programming, then examine the ways such a practise may enhance teaching and learning in computer science education.