Math connections in computer science
Ralph J. Bravaco, Bo Hyeon Kim, Michael B. Gousie, Linda M. Wilkens · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2009
This panel will lead a discussion about the role and relevance of mathematics in undergraduate Computer Science education. We will explore the major question pertaining to math connections in computer science: How can we make the math that C.S. students take more meaningful to their major? The panelists will describe the approaches they have taken toward achieving this goal. Ralph Bravaco will discuss his experience integrating math and computer science via learning communities at Stonehill College. Michael Gousie will describe a new Foundations of Computing Theory course that has been added to the C.S. curriculum at Wheaton College. Bo Kim will discuss the two particularly difficult challenges of (1) teaching discrete math to students with a wide range of mathematical abilities, and (2) students' lack of enthusiasm for mathematics. Linda Wilkens will discuss strategic problems that are a consequence of recent trends in undergraduate enrollment including the rising numbers of undeclared students and the need to court students into the major.