
www.rsisinternational.org
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,
MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)
ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue V, May 2026
coding errors and during debugging tasks, indicating that GitHub Copilot serves as a significant support
mechanism in troubleshooting and problem-solving activities. The respondents also frequently utilized the tool
during programming exercises and logic-related tasks, suggesting that GitHub Copilot has become integrated
into their coding practices as both a development and learning aid.
In terms of perceived improvement in debugging skills, the respondents demonstrated a proficient level across
all measured dimensions, including identifying code errors, fixing bugs, and understanding code issues. Among
these dimensions, understanding code issues obtained the highest mean, indicating that students perceive GitHub
Copilot as particularly helpful in analyzing and interpreting programming problems. These findings suggest that
AI-assisted tools may contribute positively to students’ confidence and perceived competence in debugging-
related activities.
Furthermore, the study established a statistically significant strong positive relationship between GitHub Copilot
utilization and perceived improvement in debugging skills. The results imply that students who frequently utilize
GitHub Copilot and spend more time engaging with the tool tend to report higher levels of perceived debugging
proficiency. Consequently, the null hypothesis stating that there is no significant relationship between GitHub
Copilot utilization and perceived improvement in debugging skills was rejected.
The findings of the study support existing literature emphasizing the potential benefits of AI-assisted
programming tools in enhancing students’ learning experiences and programming productivity. However, the
study also reinforces the importance of critical thinking and independent problem-solving, as discussed in
previous studies, since AI-generated outputs still require evaluation, verification, and refinement by the users.
While GitHub Copilot may serve as an effective supplementary tool for debugging and programming assistance,
the development of genuine debugging competence still depends on the students’ active engagement, analytical
thinking, and understanding of programming concepts.
Overall, the study concludes that GitHub Copilot is widely utilized among BSIT students and is significantly
associated with students’ perceived improvement in debugging skills. The findings highlight the potential of AI-
assisted programming tools to support programming education when used appropriately and strategically.
Moreover, the study provides valuable insights for educators and academic institutions regarding the integration
of AI tools into programming instruction while maintaining a balance between technological assistance and the
development of independent debugging and problem-solving skills.
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