If you are looking for an inspired paper about computer programming, you should read this one. The authors skillfully discuss pedagogical patterns dedicated to object-oriented programming in higher-level courses of computer science (CS). The hall of fame is a gallery of well-written instances of code constructed by the best students as opposed to the hall of shame. However, drawing conclusions from bad coding practices can prevent bugs in future applications. There are two crucial issues for educators: selecting programming languages and choosing active learning and teaching policies. We have to understand some cognitive processes involved in software design. Moreover, we have to handle recurrent dilemmas. The authors propose a repository of virtuous programming practices that can be reused.

Pedagogical patterns are adjusted to improve programming skills. A proposed format describes the hall of shame and fame pattern in succinct ways: problem, context, solution, discussion, resource requirements, examples, and related patterns. These seven elements enable systematic reuse and evaluation through experiments. Students produce better instances before the deadline. Bad programming rules originating from a trial-and-error technique can be reduced by receiving guidelines to consider better code. A wise combination of new knowledge about teaching and about programming techniques sheds new light on teaching. Some selected anonymous examples with comments by a teacher are categorized by students as fame or shame.

Definitely, the hall of shame and fame pattern is an innovative new educational approach building on known technologies and methods. It is worthwhile to underline the importance and noteworthiness of the programming ideas described in the paper.