Abstract

In this study, we present and discuss students’ perceptions regarding the characteristics of a good programmer and their correspondence with industry’s expectations. The research data were collected at two time-points: the first and last semesters of the students’ studies. The analysis of the provided answers was carried out using analytic induction and revealed that the students in both time-points indicated various human factors such as personality traits, social skills, cognitive abilities and affective aspects. The students also specified professional capabilities such as formal and informal knowledge and skills. Students in their last semester provided more attributes concerning the image of a good programmer than they did when they had just started their studies. Moreover, their perception matches industry’s expectations, as reflected by industry blogs dealing with programming issues. The students’ perceptions are also compatible with the programmer’s qualifications described in the research literature.