Learning computer science concepts using iPhone applications
Judith O’Rourke, Ian M. MacDonald, David E. Goldschmidt · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2010
Students use computers and technology at increasingly younger ages. Nonetheless, enrollment in degree-bearing Computer Science programs is not keeping pace with the need for professionals in the field of software development [4]. Even in today's technology-rich world, Computer Science is still often viewed as an esoteric and cryptic field of study. While students tend to be fluent in using computers and handheld devices, understanding how these devices work and especially how they are programmed largely remains a mystery. To address this problem and attract potential Computer Science students at the middle and high school levels, we have developed iPhone applications that present fundamental Computer Science concepts in the form of a game. In particular, we have implemented Bubble Sort and Binary Search applications. Our approach talks to the younger generations by using a medium they are already comfortable with.