A Systematic Review of Studies on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools in Programming Education

Purpose: This study aims to systematically review the existing literature on using Generative Artificial Intelligence (Gen-AI) tools in programming education and assess their impact on educational processes. Method: In the study, the systematic review method was adopted, following the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram guidelines. As part of the literature review, the Web of Science, ACM, IEEE, Scopus, Springer Link, Google Scholar, and The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye - National Academic Network and Information Center (TÜBİTAK ULAKBİM) databases were searched. The studies on using Gen-AI tools in programming education were compiled based on the research questions. Findings: As a result of the literature review, 27 studies that met the specified criteria were analyzed. It was found that the majority of these studies were conducted with undergraduate students and generally focused on Python as the programming language. The most commonly used AI tool was ChatGPT. It was observed that a significant number of the studies reviewed focused on students' cognitive support gains, computational thinking skills, and their effects on their academic achievement and motivation. Highlights: The reviews revealed that there was a significant increase in the number of academic studies on the use of Gen-AI tools in programming education, especially in 2024. However, the fact that there are only three studies on this subject in Türkiye shows that there is a big gap in the local literature. In this respect, it is thought that local studies on integrating AI tools into programming education should be increased, and there is great potential in this field.