The majority of your students probably understand the overall concept of the data structures and misconceptions and challenges they face are most likely related to the correct use. It is important that student learn how to correctly use data structures like strings and lists in Python. Once a student moves on to using data structures in loops and functions and in more complex programs, incorrect uses can lead to mistakes that are more challenging to debug and identify.
Our discussion on Misconceptions and Challenges focuses on Python (and we point out which of the M&C apply to Scratch).
- M&C1: Confusing the index and the content (with video)
- M&C2: Assuming that all list elements must be accessed (with video)
- M&C3: Using an index lying outside the list (typically an off-by-1 error) (with video)
- M&C4: Overwriting values in a swap operation (with video)
- M&C5: One-off errors in slicing
- M&C6: Misunderstanding immutability
- M&C7: Differences and similarities between Lists, Tuples, and Arrays
- M&C8: Incorrect use of strings, integers, and variable names
- M&C9: A list can contain a list?
- M&C10: Does every language allow negative indices for lists and strings?
- M&C11: Print multiple-line strings
