Creating a Standardized Environment for Efficient Learning Management using GitHub Codespaces and GitHub Classroom

Abstract

One challenge with teaching practical programming classes is the standardization of development tools on student computers. This is particularly true when a complicated setup process is required before beginning to code, or in remote classes, such as those necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, where the instructor cannot provide individual troubleshooting assistance. In such cases, students who encounter problems during the setup process may give up on the class altogether before even beginning to code. Therefore, this paper recommends using GitHub Codespaces as a tool for implementing standardized student development environments from day one. Codespaces provides Docker containers that an instructor can configure in such a way as to enable students to practice installing various coding tools within a controlled space, while also providing a language-specific, fully optimized development environment. In addition, Codespaces may be used more effectively in collaboration with GitHub Classroom, which helps instructors manage both the starter code and coding environment in which students work. In this paper, we compare two semesters of university Node.JS programming classes that utilized different development environments: one localized on student computers, the other containerized in Codespaces online. Then, we discuss how GitHub Codespaces and GitHub Classroom can be used to increase the effectiveness of practical programming classes while also increasing student engagement and programming confidence in class.