Help-Seeking Features

Codespec’s problem interface offers several forms of help, which vary depending on the problem type the learner is currently solving.

“Show pseudocode” is available for all problem types except Pseudocode. For Parsons and Faded Parsons, displays each block’s pseudocode text above its line of code. For Fix Code and Write Code, it displays the a complete pseudocode plan alongside the code editor; all pseudocode lines are in the correct order and indentation.

“Pair and Compare” helps learners eliminate distractor blocks. In order for this option to be available, both the distractor and its correct counterpart must be on the same side of the problem interface (both in the starter list, or both in the solution list). If multiple pairs of distractor and correct blocks are present, Codespec randomly chooses one for the learner to focus on. The learner must then compare the distractor and correct block, and select the block they think is correct. If they choose incorrectly, Codespec informs them of the error. To complete the “Pair and Compare” process, learners must choose the correct block so that the distractor block can be eliminated. Once eliminated, the distractor block appears to be faded out in the problem interface.

“Add missing block” help is only available if the starter list still contains blocks expected in the correct Parsons solution. Once requested, it randomly selects one of these blocks and places it in the solution list at the appropriate indentation. If it is also possible to place it in the correct order, Codespec will do so. Otherwise, it will be placed in the best possible order relative to all other blocks currently in the learner’s solution.

“Remove incorrect block” help is only available if the solution list contains 1 or more distractor blocks. Once requested, it randomly selected one of these blocks and removes it from the solution list, returning it to the starter list at its original order.

“Provide correct order” help is only available if the solution contains blocks that are incorrectly ordered. Once requested, it randomly selects on of these blocks and relocates it to the correct position. All other solution blocks are kept in the same order relative to each other.

“Provide correct order” help is only available if the solution contains blocks that are incorrectly ordered. Once requested, it randomly selects on of these blocks and relocates it to the correct position. All other solution blocks are kept in the same order relative to each other.