arXiv · 2603.23830
CodeExemplar: Example-Based Scaffolding for Introductory Programming in the GenAI Era
Abstract
Generative AI (GenAI) can generate working code with minimal effort, creating a tension in introductory programming: students need timely help, yet direct solutions invite copying and can short-circuit reasoning. To address this, we propose example-based scaffolding, where GenAI provides scaffold examples that match a target task's underlying reasoning pattern but differ in contexts to support analogical transfer while reducing copying. We contribute a two-dimensional taxonomy, design guidelines, and CodeExemplar, a prototype integrated with auto-graded tasks, with initial formative feedback from a classroom pilot and instructor interviews.
Explore related subjects
Keep this discovery
Boxuan Ma, Shinichi Konomi. 2026-03-25. CodeExemplar: Example-Based Scaffolding for Introductory Programming in the GenAI Era. https://arxiv.org/abs/2603.23830
Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.