Program Visualization Using Virtual Worlds

这个项目使用了一个高影响力，高兴趣的程序可视化环境，爱丽丝，介绍了一个强大的核心基本编程概念（对象，类，方法，函数，决策，变量，参数，循环）和问题解决和设计技术开始程序员。它解决了计算机科学专业学生在第一年学习期间的高流失率，以及在计算机扫盲和服务课程中教学编程的创新材料和策略的需求。不幸的是，非计算机科学专业的学生对编程课程的态度往往很差，计算机科学专业的女性入学率一直在下降。以前的NSF概念验证项目的结果包括证据表明，这种方法可以显着提高成就和保留的高风险CS专业在他们的第一年。也有轶事证据表明，这种方法捕捉学生的兴趣，激发妇女和少数民族的积极态度。以前的工作已经产生了一个原型的教学材料和教科书，协同工作的爱丽丝高兴趣的软件环境。原型材料已经过试点测试和同行审查。其他教师已经成功地使用这些材料，但没有正式的测试已经超出了试点项目。因此，该项目包括在项目的第一年和第二年期间在区域试验场使用和正式试验经修订的材料。区域考试地点位于不同类型的机构，为具有不同背景和职业目标的学生提供服务。

This project uses a high-impact, high-interest program visualization environment, Alice, to introduce a strong core of fundamental programming concepts (objects, classes, methods, functions, decisions, variables, parameters, loops) and problem-solving and design techniques to beginning programmers. It addresses the high attrition rate of computer science majors during their first year of study as well as the need for innovative materials and strategies for teaching programming in computer literacy and service courses. Unfortunately, students who are not computer science majors often have poor attitudes toward programming courses and the enrollment of women in computer science has been declining. The results of a previous NSF proof-of-concept project includes evidence that this approach can significantly improve achievement and retention of high-risk CS-majors during their first year. There is also anecdotal evidence that this approach captures student interest and motivates positive attitudes for women and minorities.Previous work has yielded a prototype of instructional materials and a textbook that work synergistically with the Alice high-interest software environment. The prototype materials have been pilot tested and peer reviewed. Other faculty members have successfully used these materials, but no formal testing has been done beyond the pilot project. Thus, the project includes using and formally testing the revised materials at regional test sites during the first and second years of the project. The regional test sites are at different types of institutions, serving students with diverse backgrounds and career goals.