This article describes the sequence alignment problem in bioinformatics. Through examples, we formulate sequence alignment as an optimization problem and show how to compute the optimal alignment with dynamic programming. The examples and sample exercises have been used by the author in a specialized course in bioinformatics, but could be adapted…

The growth of online resources and the advances in Web 2.0 technology are changing the information landscape and impacting teaching and learning. While information literacy has been recognized as a critical component of undergraduate learning, little if any discipline-specific research is done in the lower division mathematics/computer science…

A program at Bowling Green State University which combines a broad computer science background with teaching experiences and education courses is described. (Author)

A description of a regional network of five small colleges supported by a university timesharing computer system which provided the experimental setting for a teacher education program in educational applications of computers. (Author)

The paper discusses factors contributing to the problem of preparing present and future teachers to accept and become skilled in the use of computers in the instructional process, and the obstacles to achieving a solution. (Author)

Learning to program involves developing an understanding of two hierarchies of concepts. One hierarchy consists of data and extends from very literal data (which represents only itself) to very abstract data incorporating variable values in complex interrelationships. The other hierarchy consists of the operations performed on the data and extends…

Several major universities are not granting academic credit to students who pass the College Board's Advanced Placement Test in Computer Science. Issues related to this trend and to the teaching of computer science in high schools and in colleges are explored. (JN)

This study identified computer objectives based on recommendations of the authoritative accounting bodies, determined whether the typical introductory computer course has these same objectives, and examined the influence of the academic department responsible for teaching the course. Relationships between department and course objectives,…

A pair of abacuses is used to illustrate addition, subtraction (by adding complements), multiplication, and division, with simplified examples given to illustrate the various features of each operation. Also indicates how this information can help students understand computer operations. (JN)

Mandates related to computer education have made their presence felt nationwide. Provided are ideas about and suggestions for computer training in schools and teacher education to help determine the content behind these mandates. These include making computers tools in all curricula and continued teacher retraining without mandates. (JN)

The Web, the Internet, the intranet and associated resources, campus computer labs, smart classrooms, course management systems, and a plethora of software packages all offer opportunities for every classroom instructor to enrich in-class and out-of-class activities. Why should an instructor consider the integration of technology into their…

Data from a survey of colleges and universities indicate most offer some academic program in electronic data processing, but only larger institutions offer computer science as a major field. (Author/RA)

Provides information on teaching the "logic" component of computer studies specified in the J.M.B. syllabi (ordinary and advanced levels). Indicates that the information may be useful for teachers contemplating or starting courses leading to A-level. Information is based on notes provided with DALECK and assume use of this kit. (JN)

Some aspects of animation that are on the Apple-microcomputer are presented. Shape tables are described and several programs that illustrate important concepts are included. The concept of animation is viewed as being very simple and the process is clearly detailed. (MP)

Discusses five instructional purposes for computers (opportunities for students to become familiar with computers, development of skills with computers, curriculum enhancement, educational reform, and cost-effectiveness), their similarities and differences, and the ways in which each purpose could be evaluated. (Author/IRT)