Ask, Code, Review: A Three-Module Framework for AI in Programming Labs

Abstract

We present a three-module pedagogical framework for structured AI integration in undergraduate programming labs. Rather than banning or freely permitting AI, the framework escalates AI access within a single lab: ask-only for concept learning (Module 1), syntax and error assistance only for student-authored code (Module 2), and agent mode with mandatory review for collaborative coding (Module 3). Deployed in an undergraduate data structures course at Stony Brook University, N = 128 survey responses show that 93.8% of students intend to use AI again, 78.9% could explain their solutions without AI help, and only 13.3% felt AI use resembled cheating.

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