Dimensions Of Programming Knowledge

Nowadays, learning and teaching outcomes are defined predominantly by target competencies. In order to assess learning outcomes, properly defined and empirically validated competency models are required. For object-oriented programming, such models have not been brought forward up to now. Aiming to develop a competency structure and level model for this field, we have examined the structural knowledge of programming novices to derive its potential dimensions. The results suggest 6 dimensions. Additionally, we propose difficulty levels for two of these dimensions based on the SOLO taxonomy. The empirical validation of these dimensions and their levels is subject to further investigations.