A Cognitive Based Approach To The Implementation Of The Introductory Computer Science Programming Sequence
Michael Doran, Herbert Eugene Longenecker, David L. Feinstein, David D. Langan · 2020
A cognitive-based approach is being used to develop comprehensive materials for the first courses in Computer Science based on Implementation D of Computing Curricula 1991.The distinguishing features are:(1) materials based on a strategic sequencing and the associated Bloom level of mastery of key topics, (2) topical coverage carefully based on a spiral approach to information presentation, (3) integral use of structured labs as a necessary component of the course, (4) an emphasis on frequent feedback to facilitate learning and to evaluate the effectiveness of instruction, (5) an early use of teams, (6) a student surveying tool used to track all students to provide outcome assessment, and (7) review and evaluation by multiple institutions for iterative material refinement and national dissemination.A preliminary on-site evaluation, by a team of five consultants with expertise in the fields of computing, computing education and educational psychology, was conducted at the beginning of the project to critique project planning and initial materials.Materials currently developed will be class tested and evaluated by other faculty during the remainder of this year.These updated materials will be refined and further disseminated.The evaluation of materials will continue with the original five onsite consultants, three off-site consultants and several review/adoption institutions.An Undergraduate Faculty Enhancement workshop has been funded and is being planned for June of 1996.This will allow 20 participants to be exposed to the methodology and materials developed in this project.