Virtual Booth

Novice programming students often depend heavily on automated tools such as IDE compilers, autocomplete, and generative AI when writing code. This reliance can lead students to depend on tools instead of building the skill themselves, weakening their ability to produce syntactically correct code independently, particularly during written examinations. Many students grasp algorithmic logic at a conceptual level but find it difficult to translate pseudocode into correct C++ syntax without software support. To address this problem, the Tangible Code Strips (TCS) Intervention Kit was developed as an unplugged, hands-on learning tool. TCS uses physical, color-coded strips together with a two-stage scaffolding approach: Stage 1 involves matching logic to syntax through physical manipulation, while Stage 2 requires students to construct code manually without assistance. This structure encourages active tracing of algorithms and reduces dependence on automated tools. This study evaluated the design effectiveness, student engagement, and commercial potential of the TCS Intervention Kit among novice tertiary-level programming students. Results from 39 participants showed strong user engagement and a clear reduction in tool dependence. Students also reported gains in manual debugging ability and greater confidence in independent programming. In addition, 82.1% of respondents expressed a strong interest in purchasing the kit as a personal study aid. These findings suggest that TCS is a low-cost, hardware-free tool that educators can use to strengthen core programming skills. By linking logic to syntax, the kit offers a practical way to reduce reliance on automated tools while building genuine programming competence.