Visual Studio Code extension for coding process reports
**Currently in beta.** The extension enables students, teachers, and professionals to see the coding process or AI use, and to discuss how the coding process can be improved.
In beta — actively being refined
Supports reflection and discussion
No LMS integration required
Student-controlled workflow
What is the VS Code extension?
Process Feedback for VS Code helps make the coding process visible inside a tool many students already use. It supports teaching and reflection by showing how code evolves over time instead of focusing only on the final submission.
The extension is useful when you want to discuss:
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How students draft, revise, and debug their code -
How much work happened across the full coding session -
How students explain their development process
This extension is in beta
The VS Code extension is newer than our other tools and is still being refined based on classroom use. It is free to install and use, and we welcome teachers who want to try it -- but please plan for it accordingly.
What beta means here:
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Behavior and the report layout may change between releases -
We recommend trying it on a low-stakes assignment first -
If a student's process matters for grading, ask them to keep their final code saved independently -
Our online compiler is the more established option if you want something settled
How it fits into a class workflow
Students install the extension in VS Code and use it for the full coding process on an assignment. After they finish, they can review and share a coding process report alongside their final code.
A typical workflow looks like this:
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Step 1. The instructor asks students to use Process Feedback for a coding assignment -
Step 2. Students code in VS Code with the extension enabled for their full workflow -
Step 3. Students review their coding process and generate a report -
Step 4. Students submit the final code and, if requested, a process report or reflection
Who it is for
The VS Code extension is designed for courses where the process of programming matters, not just whether the final program runs.
Especially useful for:
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Introductory programming courses -
Project-based coding assignments -
Teachers who want reflection on debugging and revision habits
Makes the coding process discussable
The extension helps students revisit how they worked through a problem, including drafting, debugging, and revision.
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Supports reflection after the assignment -
Gives instructors a concrete basis for discussion -
Moves attention beyond the final code alone
Fits the tools students already use
Students who prefer working in VS Code do not need to leave that environment just to document their process.
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Works in a familiar coding environment -
Useful for class assignments and individual projects -
Pairs naturally with existing submission workflows
Built for reflection first
The goal is to support reflective teaching and learning, especially in courses where students benefit from explaining how they approached a problem.
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Encourages metacognition -
Supports conversations about strategy and struggle -
Useful in AI-aware coding pedagogy
What it is not
Process Feedback is not a misconduct detector and it does not replace instructor judgment. It is a reflection-oriented tool that helps students and teachers talk about the coding process with more clarity.
It is not:
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An automated grading tool -
A surveillance system for policing students -
A substitute for course policies or human feedback
Get started
Install the VS Code extension or review the classroom guide for using coding process reports in your course.