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Error Resolution Strategies: What do Novice Non-Native English Programmers Use?

Abstract:

This study investigates the error resolution strate-gies employed by novice non-native English-speaking students in programming tasks. A controlled experiment was conducted with think-aloud sessions to solve code fragments containing syntax and logic errors, allowing participants to use any resources and tools but AI. Observations and notes were taken on each student's actions and answers to questions from two accompanying researchers. Four distinct strategies emerged: Trial-and-Error, Debugging, Online Searching, and Online Translation. Our findings suggest that students rely mainly on trial-and-error while missing opportunities to apply other strategies or poorly executing them.