Among the toughest challenges in an introductory computer science course is the need to motivate non-programmers to learn how to program. The United States Military Academy includes as part of its core curriculum an introductory course to Information Technology which is required for all first year students. This course provides the foundation for students to learn about problem solving through computing. Motivating students to learn and comprehend these concepts, especially those with no intrinsic desire to program can certainly present a series of challenges.

We have recently employed three techniques to help motivate the learner: the use of a visual design tool, incorporating graphics into programming exercises and a system to provide immediate testing feedback for a completed program solution. Our initial results indicate that the use of visual tools and exercises enhances students’ learning and drives them to better achieve a solution to an assigned problem. Furthermore, we have discovered that students feel a better sense of accomplishment when they can execute an automated test plan and receive instant confirmation of whether or not their solution is correct.