21 March 2025
The problem: students write programs, and you have to mark them, but this type of feedback has very little impact. How could we do this differently?
Maybe simple unit testing is one solution. Using a system, perhaps even AI to check the outputs from a program against unit tests. This certainly works, but it only solves half of the problem. How do you give meaningful feedback to enable students to make progress in their future programs?
Our twenty-five years of teaching programming has shown that oral feedback is far more effective than written feedback for programming; but what questions should you be asking students when assessing their work? How can you check their understanding? What action points should students be given?
That’s where our oral feedback framework has been giving teachers an advantage as we’ve done the hard work for you. Version 2 of our popular guide is now available and it’s even easier to use.
Still based on a simplified Shulte’s block model of program comprehension, this latest version guides you more thoroughly through marking, checking understanding and setting actions.
The best part is it is free for everyone and works with all schemes of learning whether you are using Time2Code or an alternative scheme.
Download the updated framework here: TIME-2-CODE-Oral-feedback-framework.pdf
For more guidance on our points-based system, a downloadable tracking sheet and assessment of programming see our guide to assessment here: Assessment – time2code
Not seen Time2Code before? You’re missing out. This innovative approach based on all the latest research is an evolution of PRIMM. Check it out today: Home – time2code
