Software tools for learning: tips, tricks, and traps
Jack Alanen · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2014
Common issues are described for finding, selecting, and using software tools for teaching computer science, computer information technology, or computer literacy courses at all levels, including both in higher education and industry. The tools will range from the ordinary (e.g., spell/grammar checker, drawing wizard, and revision tracking available in MS Office apps) to the specialized (e.g., tools for automated software problem tracking, software engineering management, and Markov modeling/simulation). The following are example tool types: Learning management systems (e.g., Moodle, MyITLab), teaching databases (component libraries, exercises/exams/tutorials, video/audio clips), assignment graders (REVIC, Excel, MyITLab), programming language systems (Dr. Racket, PROLOG), and simulators (JFLAP for building/testing finite automata and formal grammars, CARMS for computer-aided rate modeling and simulation, and COCOMO for software development resource estimation). Issues considered for each tool type include: cost, availability, support, version/change control, benefits to the instructor, benefits to the student, and instruction-related impacts (e.g., on curriculum assessment or plagiarism). Based solely on the presenter's teaching experience, at least one practical tip, trick, and trap will be offered for each tool type. This is neither a tutorial on specific tools nor a recommendation for the example tools briefly discussed. It is rather a practical list of tips, tips, and traps when incorporating software tools into teaching computing.