RESHAPE lab

news / 12/1/24

Programming is hard... but can a chatbot help? 🤖

12/1/24 · event

At RESHAPE Lab, we’re taking on a big question: Can large language model (LLM)-based chatbots teach programming students the cognitive skills they need to succeed—skills often called 'computational thinking'?

Building on research by RESHAPE Lab graduate researcher Jacob Penney, who explored:

1️⃣ Instructor requirements for LLM-based tools in programming education.

2️⃣ Student trust in and sentiments about popular LLM tools for studying.

Jacob’s team has now developed a functioning prototype of a chatbot designed specifically to support programming students. 🎉 The chatbot aims to meet both instructor needs and student expectations—making learning programming a little less daunting and a lot more interactive.

We’re excited to take the next step: implementing the chatbot for real lab studies with students! 🚀

Curious to learn more? Or have thoughts about LLMs in education? Let’s connect! 💻