ERIC Number: EJ1481247
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 33
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0899 3408
EISSN: EISSN-1744-5175
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Digital Music Composition: The Effects of Computer Coding Musical Compositions on Adult Learners' Attitudes toward Computer Science
W. Monty Jones1; Katherine Hansen1; Douglas Lusa Krug2; Michael L. Schad1; Nakisha Whittington1; Xun Liu1
Computer Science Education, v35 n3 p635-667 2025
Background and Context: Efforts to engage adult learners in computer science in the United States have been largely unsuccessful. While research examining the use of music for teaching computer programming with K-12 learners is emerging, little research with adult learners exists. Objective: This study evaluates the effect of computer coding musical compositions on adult learner's attitudes towards computer science. Method: This study utilized the TunePad programming environment to engage adult learners in a computer programming course. Data were obtained through an attitudes towards computing survey and individual interviews. Findings: Quantitative data from participants suggest that computer coding musical compositions positively affected their attitudes toward computer science. Findings from interviews provide insight into how these types of learning activities affected attitudes. Implications: Results of this research will be useful for organizations tasked with assisting adult learners in re-training and upskilling in computer science.
Descriptors: Musical Composition, Computer Software, Adult Students, Student Attitudes, Computer Science Education, Programming, Coding, Positive Attitudes, Music Education, Teaching Methods
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1School of Education, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA; 2College of Engineering, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA

Peer reviewed
Direct link
