This correspondence describes an adaptation of puzzle-based learning to teaching an introductory computer programming course. Students from two offerings of the course--with and without the puzzle-based learning--were surveyed over a two-year period. Empirical results show that the synthesis of puzzle-based learning concepts with existing course…

The main objective of our study is to determine the challenges faced during the process of teaching Computer Science in a university of a country in transition and make suggestions to improve this teaching process by perfecting the necessary conditions. Our survey builds on the thesis that we live in an information age; information technology is…

The interactional feature of hypermedia that allows high-level student-control is considered as one of the most important advantages that hypermedia provides for learning and teaching. However, high-level student control in hypermedia might not always lead to high-level learning performance. The learner is likely to experience navigation problems…

Studying fundamental Computer Architecture and Organization topics requires a significant amount of practical work if students are to acquire a good grasp of the theoretical concepts presented in classroom lectures or textbooks. The use of simulators is commonly adopted in order to reach this objective. However, as most of the available…

Features of two versions of the BASIC programing language are compared with the features of the PASCAL programing language. The application chosen for comparison was a word processor. The conclusion was that PASCAL had the best language features, but BASIC had better systems capabilities. (MP)

Ten computer languages are compared and contrasted. A series of programs focusing on the average of two numbers are designed to point out differences in console input, console output, and common arithmetic. (MP)

Describes a system for determining the appropriate computer system for an academic institution. (IRT)

This section indexes a list of the products reviewed by "Creative Computing" over the last several years. Listed are: (1) product and manufacturer; (2) type of review; (3) volume, issue number, and page; and (4) information as to whether the back issue containing the information is available. (MP)

The PASCAL and BASIC programing languages are compared, with the additional features provided by PASCAL described in detail. (MP)

Types and uses of single board computers are discussed. A chart comparing various aspects of 26 of these computers is presented.

Presents an overview of the field of microcomputers, discusses the characteristics, and evaluates the capabilities of a substantial portion of the microcomputers in the market. (GA)

The work described started in primary schools in three Welsh counties in September 1981. The project strove to: (1) evaluate currently available commercially produced software and (2) provide a practical introduction to computer use in junior and infant schools. The work involved approximately 2,000 students and 80 teachers. (MP)

Presented are some guidelines for making intelligent selections when buying computers. The intended primary use of the equipment is seen as the primary point to consider when planning the purchase. Other important points to consider and possible sources of relevant information are noted. (MP)

EMBER was a European project aiming to develop bioinformatics teaching materials on the Web and CD-ROM to help address the recognised skills shortage in bioinformatics. The project grew out of pilot work on the development of an interactive web-based bioinformatics tutorial and the desire to repackage that resource with the help of a professional…

The author describes an evaluation of a program conducted in three South Australian high schools using a mini-computer. While the computer provides the means, the ultimate success of the computer's use in the school depends on the ability and enthusiasm of the teaching staff involved. (BT)