Accodemy: AI Powered Code Learning Platform to Assist Novice Programmers in Overcoming the Fear of Coding

TL;DR

Novice programmers frequently experience fear and dropout due to anxiety and perceived task difficulty. Accodemy addresses this by a three-tier MERN-based platform powered by Generative AI and Retrieval-Augmented Generation to deliver dynamic questions, personalized roadmaps, and mindfulness-driven motivation, including an AI chatbot for mental well-being. The MVP integrates a RAG pipeline with a MongoDB vector store, LangChain orchestration, and GPT-3.5-turbo for content generation, aiming to adapt to user progress and reduce coding anxiety. The work demonstrates feasibility of a personalized, mental-health-aware learning environment with potential to improve engagement and learning outcomes in beginner programmers.

Abstract

Computer programming represents a rapidly evolving and sought-after career path in the 21st century. Nevertheless, novice learners may find the process intimidating for several reasons, such as limited and highly competitive career opportunities, peer and parental pressure for academic success, and course difficulties. These factors frequently contribute to anxiety and eventual dropout as a result of fear. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that beginners are significantly deterred by the fear of failure, which results in programming anxiety and and a sense of being overwhelmed by intricate topics, ultimately leading to dropping out. This project undertakes an exploration beyond the scope of conventional code learning platforms by identifying and utilising effective and personalised strategies of learning. The proposed solution incorporates features such as AI-generated challenging questions, mindfulness quotes, and tips to motivate users, along with an AI chatbot that functions as a motivational aid. In addition, the suggested solution integrates personalized roadmaps and gamification elements to maintain user involvement. The project aims to systematically monitor the progress of novice programmers and enhance their knowledge of coding with a personalised, revised curriculum to help mitigate the fear of coding and boost confidence.

Figures (7)

• Figure 1: High level architecture diagram of the proposed system
• Figure 2: Rag model architecture
• Figure 3: Pipeline for a vector database b15
• Figure 4: LLM generated dynamic questions
• Figure 5: LLM generated chatbot response