A Preparatory Course for Computer Science

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The first course in computer science is overwhelmingly populated by students from outside the discipline. A high dropout rate as well as a low rate of successful completion of the course indicates a need for a new approach. Poor retention in the following classes and extremely low numbers of women and minorities point to the need for better preparation. We propose a preparatory course to address these concerns that would cover problem solving, some basic mathematics, and computer use. Goals include: (1) Improve the success rate for incoming computer science majors; (2) Serve as a "magnet" course to attract new majors; (3) Improve the problem solving skills and increase awareness of computer science as a discipline among the general student population; (4) Give a more accurate introduction to computer science as a discipline; and 5) Attract women to computer science. The proposed class will give students a firm foundation in the mathematical and problem-solving skills needed for success in this and subsequent classes, as well as give them a better understanding of what computer science is, i.e., there is more to computer science than programming. By motivating learning through a "recreational" approach to the introduction of mathematical and computer science concepts, the proposed class will attempt to make learning "fun" and to minimize the typical frustrations encountered. The text "Mathematics: Problem Solving through Recreational Mathematics" by Averbach and Chein will be revised to include computer science topics development of cooperative work habits will he encouraged through the use of study groups. Proposed laboratory exercises will allow students to apply the concepts presented and to investigate them more fully.