Whole Computer Science: Emphasizing Cooperation and Communication in Introductory Curricula

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

9354423 Lo We are revising our introductory computer science curriculum to incorporate principles of whole computer science. Whole computer science emphasizes cooperative learning and problem solving, communication skills, critical thinking, and individual resourcefulness, while relating computer science to other disciplines and to everyday life. Incorporation of techniques from this highly successful pedagogy to college level curricula should help to address the critical problems of recruitment and retention of women as well as the training of computer science professionals with strong teamwork and communication skills. We believe this approach to be particularly important for retention of women students because of the many studies which have shown that women are more successful in a cooperative setting rather that a highly competitive, individual-oriented environment. We are developing a basic set of whole computer science learning modules. Each module will include (1) a rich programming assignment that encourages interaction, sharing, and re-use; (2) a set of cooperative in-class exercises and homework assignments and (3) a resource library which serves to create a microcosm of a real work environment. Communication skills will be taught through essay assignments, project writeups, a classroom community newsletter, and documents included in the resource library. We will develop grading techniques appropriate for the whole computer science model. Evaluation of our curriculum innovations will be conducted through recruitment and retention statistics; courses questionnaires designed to assess students's perception of the importance of specific traits and skills for success in the course and in the field of computer science; interviews/ discussions with a student focus group; and feedback from faculty at other universities involved in curriculum innovations and from industrial affiliates. Our results will be disseminated through papers to be submitted to c onferences and publications focused on computer science education. Publication of a teacher's sourcebook, a videotape, and workshops presentation are planned as part of a later grant proposal to NSF UCCD. ***y