USING CODE REVIEWS AS A FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT IN PROGRAMMING EDUCATION

Abstract

Code reviews have gained traction not just in software development, but also in academic settings as a means to cultivate programming skills, communication competencies, and critical thinking. When employed as a formative assessment tool, code reviews enable students to receive prompt, detailed feedback on their work, fostering a culture of peer collaboration and continuous improvement. This article explores how code reviews function as an effective formative assessment strategy in programming education, synthesizing current research, practical classroom experiences, and empirical insights. It discusses how code reviews can scaffold learning, enhance understanding of coding standards, improve problem-solving approaches, and encourage reflective thinking in students. Additionally, potential challenges—such as the workload on instructors, ensuring constructive peer feedback, and addressing diverse student needs—are examined. Finally, the article summarizes evidence on how structured code review processes can drive deeper conceptual mastery, better code quality, and improved student retention rates in programming courses. By integrating code reviews throughout the academic term, educators can enhance the formative assessment landscape, aligning with industry practices while supporting key pedagogical principles.