Understanding Success in Programming Competitions: Perspectives of students with Exceptional Results

• Luiz Cláudio Theodoro UFU
• Camila da Cruz Santos UFU
• Crishna Irion UFU
• Rafael Dias Araújo UFU
• João Henrique de Souza Pereira UFU
• Pedro Frosi Rosa UFU

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/wei.2024.2079

Abstract

Computing teaching has constantly developed in response to innovations in information technology. Programming Marathons emerged as one of the initiatives to meet the growing demand for professionals with skills in logical-mathematical reasoning. In order to contribute to improving the computing learning, this work used a qualitative approach, analyzing student responses through interviews and surveys. The goal of this paper is to identify patterns in the routine of prominent participants in programming competitions, based on the experience of former competitors, in order to use this information for proposals to improve current teaching models in future work. The results highlight that the discipline of study, with adequate time planning, and practice in simulators, such as online judges, are fundamental for solid learning aligned with contemporary demands.

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