Learning (through) recursion: a multidimensional analysis of the competences achieved by CS1 students

In this paper I will discuss an investigation intended to address the learning of recursion in a multidimensional perspective, where the dimensions correspond to different types of competence relevant to programming. One such dimension is the understanding of the computation model, that I have assessed under the methodology proposed by Goetschi et al. (2003). Moreover, I have tried to analyze and correlate other learning dimensions, such as the ability to establish relations in the problem domain, to deal with recursive structures, as well as to develop basic abstraction skills. One of my objectives is indeed to gain a better understanding of the major sources of difficulties that students face. In essence, my investigation lends further support to previous related findings on mental models. However, a consistent model of recursive computations, although implied by the ability to use recursion in problem-solving, does not seem to be sufficient for the achievement of higher-level skills.