Mayela Coto

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Mayela Coto is a dedicated educator and researcher whose work centers on improving student motivation and retention in computer science education, particularly in introductory programming courses. Her most influential research addresses a critical challenge: the high failure and dropout rates in programming classes. Coto’s major contribution lies in demonstrating how innovative pedagogical approaches—specifically Problem-Based Learning (PBL) combined with LEGO robots—can transform the learning experience. Her 2014 study on this topic, with 46 citations, showed that hands-on, collaborative projects significantly boost student engagement and persistence. Expanding on this, her 2015 comparative analysis of three learning designs (15 citations) explored how different instructional strategies affect students’ emotional wellbeing and intrinsic motivation. By linking positive learning experiences to academic success, Coto provides evidence-based frameworks for educators seeking to create more inclusive and effective programming classrooms. Her work is particularly notable for its practical, low-cost interventions that can be implemented in resource-constrained settings, making her a key voice in the movement to make computer science education more accessible and rewarding for all students.