# Analyzing LLM Usage in an Advanced Computing Class in India

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2404.04603 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2404.04603/

## Key facts

- Cited by 6 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 6 Apr 2024.

## Built on by (most cited first, 6 of 6)

- [Beyond the Hype: A Comprehensive Review of Current Trends in Generative AI Research, Teaching Practices, and Tools](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2412.14732/) (2024)
- [Faculty Perspectives on the Potential of RAG in Computer Science Higher Education](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2408.01462/) (2024)
- [Mind the Gap! Choice Independence in Using Multilingual LLMs for Persuasive Co-Writing Tasks in Different Languages](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2502.09532/) (2025)
- [Talk2X -- An Open-Source Toolkit Facilitating Deployment of LLM-Powered Chatbots on the Web](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2504.03343/) (2025)
- [Evaluating Code Generation of LLMs in Advanced Computer Science Problems](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2504.14964/) (2025)
- [Small Language Models for Curriculum-based Guidance](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2510.02347/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

This study examines the use of large language models (LLMs) by undergraduate and graduate students for programming assignments in advanced computing classes. Unlike existing research, which primarily focuses on introductory classes and lacks in-depth analysis of actual student-LLM interactions, our work fills this gap. We conducted a comprehensive analysis involving 411 students from a Distributed Systems class at an Indian university, where they completed three programming assignments and shared their experiences through Google Form surveys. Our findings reveal that students leveraged LLMs for a variety of tasks, including code generation, debugging, conceptual inquiries, and test case creation. They employed a spectrum of prompting strategies, ranging from basic contextual prompts to advanced techniques like chain-of-thought prompting and iterative refinement. While students generally viewed LLMs as beneficial for enhancing productivity and learning, we noted a concerning trend of over-reliance, with many students submitting entire assignment descriptions to obtain complete solutions. Given the increasing use of LLMs in the software industry, our study highlights the need to update undergraduate curricula to include training on effective prompting strategies and to raise awareness about the benefits and potential drawbacks of LLM usage in academic settings.