Adding Fourth Generation Language and Real-time Concepts to an Introductory Computer Science Course

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This project introduces bold changes to the introductory- level computer science course at this institution, a course patterned on the recommendations of the ACM Curriculum '78 guidelines. Unlike traditional courses that concentrate almost entirely on the teaching of a third generation programming language, the new course first has the students solve complex problems using fourth-generation application specific languages. They then progress through database and graphics concepts utilizing a real- time data acquisition laboratory experience. The course includes the teaching of a third generation programming language but comprehensive user-friendly tools drastically shorten the time needed for students to achieve a high level of programming proficiency. The laboratory environment that supports this project includes: MAC II workstations, connected by AppleTalk local area network software and hardware, a dedicated MAC II fileserver, an Imagewriter LQ printer, and, instrument interfaces to connect the configuration to digitizers, A/D-D/A converters, graphic printers and plotters. Students in this course achieve a broader understanding of the capabilities of computers and gain valuable experience in exercising these insights on problems of a more useful and realistic scale than is possible in most introductory courses. This award is being matched by an equal sum from the grantee.