NSF Award
9151985
This project establishs a laboratory of microcomputers to expand use of directed laboratory periods in introductory and intermediate computer science courses. Experimental laboratory periods in two introductory computer science classes are being introduced, and this is expanded and introduced into one additional course. The new laboratory complements the small Macintosh Lab, which is shared by all of the sciences. The new lab makes possible the regular scheduling of directed laboratory periods in the target courses under directed faculty supervision.Networking of the computers to the faculty network aids faculty in integrating computing resources into coursework. It enables simplified distribution of instructor- prepared data files and software, the efficient shared use of certain commercial software (in accordance with licensing), and improved communication between faculty and students regarding problems in using the course software. Although the use of laboratories in intermediate and advanced computer science courses is becoming widespread, the use of directed laboratories in the introductory computer science curriculum appears to be a newly emerging trend. Most current efforts in these areas are tool-oriented: teaching the programming environment, debugging tools etc. Use of these labs to teach structured programming and software engineering topics appears to be a valuable innovatIon. Student response to the experimental lab periods has been highly positive, and course success rates have been enhanced, especially with non-majors.
