Strategies for Increasing the Academic Performance of Students at School-Level Computer Programming Lessons

Background/Objectives: This article contains the results of the research conducted by its authors in order to propose the ways enabling school students to demonstrate high academic performance at programming lessons. Methods: The authors identify the factors which prevent the advancement and development in the sphere of school programming education. They also formulate several hypotheses aimed at increasing the effectiveness of school programming classes. Findings: The authors have found optimal ways of increasing the effectiveness and value of the school-level programming education. All theoretical findings are verified by real-life statistical data obtained from studies of existing teaching practices. Improvements: The article provides methodological and practical guidelines aimed at raising the educational value of school programming classes and increasing the students’ interest in the subject. It can be used by programming teachers to develop a long-term strategy for ensuring the quality of learning environment and academic performance.