Mathematics background, prior language exposure, and perceived success in introductory computer science courses (abstract)

While the study of a structured programming language is gaining prominence in introductory computer science courses throughout the academic community, questions are being raised about the appropriate course sequences and the necessary student background. This paper attempts to explore the relationship between the students' mathematics background and the students' success in introductory programming classes, and the effect of pre-exposure to one programming language on the learning of another.