This research is concerned with the cognitive processes involved in developing computer programs. The specific phenomenon studied is the role of "beacons" - stereotyped program fragments - in producing and understanding computer programs. Beacons from a variety of program types and in a variety of programming situations will be studied. This award is a planning grant, funded under the Research Opportunities for Women (ROW) Initiative. The support will enable the Principal Investigator to develop a detailed methodology and experimental plan.
