The problems encountered by students in first year computer programming units are a common
concern in many universities, including Victoria University. As a fundamental component of a
computer science curriculum computer programming is a mandatory unit. It is also one of the
most challenging units for many commencing students who often drop out from a computing
course as a consequence of having failed, or performed poorly, in an introductory programming
unit. This paper reports on a research project undertaken to develop and implement a strategy to
improve the learning outcomes of novice programming students. Aimed at ‘befriending’ computer
programming to help promote success among new programming students, the strategy incorporates
the use of analogy, collaboration, mentoring sessions, and electronic support. The paper
describes the elements of the strategy and discusses the results of its implementation in semester
1, 2007.