A hands-on hardware-based approach to teaching computer science concepts
Mark R. Gilder, Judith O’Rourke · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2018
Traditional introductory computer science courses begin with learning how to program in some high-level language, typically Java, Python, C++, etc. Students start off by learning correct language syntax and then how to generate simple output, e.g., Hello World. This approach lacks an explanation of application and purpose. Since electronic digital devices are ubiquitous, including cell phones, the theory is to use electronic hardware to teach computer science concepts and programming. There is strong evidence indicating that students using a hands-on hardware-based approach to develop applications that are of interest to them will result in a broader and stronger understanding of computer science. A hands-on approach is achieved by developing a video game that communicates with an Arduino microcontroller that reads data from an accelerometer. This approach is designed to motivate students and encourage them to pursue an education in the STEM fields.