e-Learning Tools for Computer Science Educators and Students
Kendrick Mock · eLearn · 2010
The high attrition rate for computer science students has generated significant debate as to the cause and possible actions to address the problem. For the introductory courses some departments have switched to new programming languages like Alice or Scratch that are much more visual than traditional languages and are considered easier to learn. Many instructors have also turned to hardware and software technology in search of better ways to inform and motivate their students. Fortunately, computer science educators are in an enviable position. As programmers, they have the means to write software to meet the pedagogical goals of their courses if existing software doesn't fit the bill. As a result, enterprising computer science educators have created software tools to help faculty teach and students learn virtually every topic in computer science. Some of these tools are designed for the physical classroom, others for the online classroom, and others for outside student activity. This article will describe some of these home-grown software tools. I'll also describe how several general tools can be used in a computer science context to enhance the learning opportunities available to students. While the focus is computer science, many tools also apply to other disciplines.