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DOI: 10.4230/OASIcs.ICPEC.2025.12

Evaluating Usability and Cognitive Load in Programming Education with ChatGPT Integration

Authors: Gustavo Gutiérrez Carreón and Rigoberto López Escalera

Published in: OASIcs, Volume 133, 6th International Computer Programming Education Conference (ICPEC 2025)

Abstract

This study analyzes the impact of ChatGPT on usability and cognitive load in programming education for undergraduate students in an Information Technology Management program. The goal is to evaluate whether ChatGPT improves learning outcomes in programming topics. A comparative research design was used with two groups: a traditional instruction control group and an experimental group using ChatGPT as a support tool. Data were collected using the System Usability Scale (SUS), a custom usability questionnaire, cognitive load surveys, and programming performance evaluations. The results indicate that the students using ChatGPT reported greater usability and a lower cognitive load. They also showed improved comprehension and problem-solving skills. However, improper use of the tool can lead to superficial learning, highlighting the need for structured guidance. The findings suggest that, when integrated appropriately, ChatGPT can improve the learning experience by reducing mental effort and enhancing participation in programming education. Recommendations are offered to help educators incorporate AI tools effectively and responsibly.

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Gustavo Gutiérrez Carreón and Rigoberto López Escalera. Evaluating Usability and Cognitive Load in Programming Education with ChatGPT Integration. In 6th International Computer Programming Education Conference (ICPEC 2025). Open Access Series in Informatics (OASIcs), Volume 133, pp. 12:1-12:7, Schloss Dagstuhl – Leibniz-Zentrum für Informatik (2025)

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@InProceedings{carreon_et_al:OASIcs.ICPEC.2025.12,
  author =	{Carre\'{o}n, Gustavo Guti\'{e}rrez and Escalera, Rigoberto L\'{o}pez},
  title =	{{Evaluating Usability and Cognitive Load in Programming Education with ChatGPT Integration}},
  booktitle =	{6th International Computer Programming Education Conference (ICPEC 2025)},
  pages =	{12:1--12:7},
  series =	{Open Access Series in Informatics (OASIcs)},
  ISBN =	{978-3-95977-393-5},
  ISSN =	{2190-6807},
  year =	{2025},
  volume =	{133},
  editor =	{Queir\'{o}s, Ricardo and Pinto, M\'{a}rio and Portela, Filipe and Sim\~{o}es, Alberto},
  publisher =	{Schloss Dagstuhl -- Leibniz-Zentrum f{\"u}r Informatik},
  address =	{Dagstuhl, Germany},
  URL =		{https://drops.dagstuhl.de/entities/document/10.4230/OASIcs.ICPEC.2025.12},
  URN =		{urn:nbn:de:0030-drops-240426},
  doi =		{10.4230/OASIcs.ICPEC.2025.12},
  annote =	{Keywords: Usability, Cognitive Load, ChatGPT-assisted Programming Education}
}

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Documents authored by Escalera, Rigoberto López

Evaluating Usability and Cognitive Load in Programming Education with ChatGPT Integration

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