The Influence of AI-Assisted Programming Tools on Coding Competency Among Computer Science Students

Abstract

This study examined the influence of AI-assisted programming tools on the coding competency of computer science students, with particular attention to how such tools affect debugging, independent problem-solving, and overall skill development. A descriptive correlational research design was utilized based on a structured questionnaire. The survey was built using validated scales on AI programming tools and coding. This survey was distributed with a few adjustments and was tested on undergraduate computer science students from universities in the Punjab and Sindh regions of Pakistan. Convenience sampling was applied for the survey, and ultimately, a sample of 268 students was surveyed. Respondents had to provide informed consent, and the data were collected through Google Forms. The survey was shared in the respective university class groups and through official student email and social media. The privacy of the respondents was assured, and the data were collected using quantitative analysis. The AI programming tools and coding skills research focused on the reliability analysis and the descriptive and principal component analysis. The results of this study will benefit students of computer science and coding. This will help educators structure tools in a way that will help students improve AI programming and maintain coding skills that offer students tools to remain independent coders and aid researchers to explain the use of AI in the coding and programming skills of university students for further research.