This dissertation describes an experiment to investigate how learners with different levels of background in computer science learn core concepts of computer science, in particular, algorithms. We designed a study to focus on cognitive task analysis for eliciting the empirical mental elements of learning two graph algorithms. Cognitive workload…

The use of technology as a facilitator in learning environments has become increasingly prevalent with the global pandemic caused by COVID-19. As such, computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) gains a wider adoption in contrast to traditional learning methods. At the same time, the need for automated tools capable of assessing and…

This report describes the initial evaluation of a text compression algorithm against computer assisted instruction (CAI) material. A review of some concepts related to statistical text compression is followed by a detailed description of a practical text compression algorithm. A simulation of the algorithm was programed and used to obtain…

A description is provided of a computer system designed to aid in the analysis of student programing work. The first section of the report consists of an overview and user's guide. In it, the system input is described in terms of a "dribble file" which records all student inputs generated; also an introduction is given to the aids…

Proposes a programing design curriculum based on three conceptual areas: process, symbolic representation, and methods of interpretation; and describes computer games and simulations in which design skills of simple and conditional sequencing, rule or constraint specification, hypothesis testing, and modeling are employed. (Author/CMV)

Discussion of how to teach programming skills to novice programmers focuses on the use of a program animator that uses a copies model of recursion to teach the recursive function. Various mental models are reviewed; testing the recursion animator is described; and possibilities for further research are suggested. (12 references) (LRW)

Describes "Josef," a robot programing language similar to the LOGO turtle language, which has been designed as an instructional system through which the algorithmic problem-solving skills required in computer programing can be developed and tested in a controlled learning environment. Four figures and a reference list are included. (JL)

A detailed analysis and computer-based solution to a puzzle addressing the arrangement of dominoes on a grid is presented. The problem is one used in a college-level data structures or algorithms course. The solution uses backtracking to generate all possible answers. Details of the use of backtracking and techniques for mapping abstract problems…

In this paper, prepared for a European conference on mathematics education, the author examines three types of computer use in undergraduate and high school classrooms: Using the computer as an instructional tool for student development of algorithms, teaching about the computer itself, and use of computer-assisted instruction. (SD)

Designed initially for use in college computer science courses, the model and computer-aided instructional environment (CAIE) described helps students develop algorithmic problem solving skills. Cognitive skills required are discussed, and implications for developing computer-based design environments in other disciplines are suggested by…

The authors are conducting a study of instructors teaching data structure and algorithm topics, with a focus on the use of diagrams and tracing. The results of this study are being used to inform the design of the Support Kit for Animation (SKA). This article describes a preliminary version of SKA, and possible usage scenarios. (Author/AEF)

Discussion of collaborative learning focuses on the MUCH (Many Using and Creating Hypermedia) System, developed at the University of Liverpool (England) for designing and implementing collaborative learning systems. Examples of applications of the MUCH System for nursing education and for computer science education are described, including the use…

THE EFFECTIVE AND ECONOMICAL USE OF COMPUTER FACILITIES AS AN AID IN TEACHING SECONDARY SCHOOL MATHEMATICS DEPENDS ON (1) ACCESS TO A TYPE OF FACILITY WHICH PERMITS PROBLEM-SOLVING PROCEDURES (I.E., ALGORITHMS DESIGNED BY A STUDENT) TO BE TESTED BY THE STUDENT AND (2) FACILITY RESPONSE TIME PER PROBLEM. THIS UNIT TIME VARIES WITH THE SIZE, TYPE,…

This paper presents the implications of an ongoing project on the design and development of multimedia instructional material for teaching and learning computer science topics at both graduate and undergraduate levels. Important pedagogical requirements that CAI software should satisfy include: (1) animation of the changes in tree topologies; (2)…

Central State University (Ohio), under a contract with Nichols Research Corporation, has developed a World Wide web based workshop on high performance computing entitled "IBN SP2 Parallel Programming Workshop." The research is part of the DoD (Department of Defense) High Performance Computing Modernization Program. The research…