This thesis presents the conception of a teaching and learning methodology for
introductory subjects to programming, entitled 7Cs Methodology, composed of seven
dimensions (Understanding, Conceiving, Completing, Compatibilizing, Correcting,
Building and Creating) and which aims to facilitate the learning process of the basic
contents of algorithms, in order to minimize difficulties of undergraduate students of
courses that include introductory subjects to programming, subjects that are often held
responsible for high retention and dropout rates in undergraduate courses in the area
of Technology and Information. The conception of such a methodology was based on
the principles of Ausubel's Meaningful Learning Theory (2000) and was initially
inspired by Campos' work (2010). Participant observations were held in two different
undergraduate courses at the Federal University of Pará (UFPA) and a pilot test in the
Algorithm Leveling Program (PNA – Portuguese acronym) at the same university. Then,
from the observations and data obtained, the methodology was applied in the subject
Algorithms, from the Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, also at UFPA. It was
verified the possibility of using the methodology in a flexible way, with feasibility, both
in leveling courses and in the subject of Algorithms at the undergraduate level.
Observed elements indicated the potential of the 7Cs Methodology to assist in reducing
difficulties in understanding the basic concepts and in the development of skills
associated with algorithm subjects, with the verification, throughout the applications,
of more active involvement of students and the development of specific skills related to
the construction of algorithms. Finally, a Guidance Material was prepared, with a brief
description of the 7Cs Methodology and examples of possible ways of its application, to
illustrate its principles and assist teachers interested in using it.
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