A teaching method for introductory computer science based on visualization and using extensive amounts of software is explained. Visualization is used to integrate other student activities, including reading algorithm and data structure descriptions, studying code for model programs and toolkits, designing software components, and building or…

SIGMA (Simulation Graphical Modeling and Analysis) is a computer graphics environment for building, testing, and experimenting with discrete event simulation models on personal computers. It uses symbolic representations (computer animation) to depict the logic of large, complex discrete event systems for easier understanding and has proven itself…

A 1990 survey of 37 dental technology programs investigated 3 areas of computer use: current and anticipated general computer education courses; incorporation of computer applications into technology and management courses; and faculty use of the computer. Most programs are beginning to expand use of technology. (MSE)

Reports results of a study that investigated whether the objectives of teaching computer science as an independent subject are met when computer science is integrated with school subjects. Components of a formal (independent) curriculum, identified through interviews with computer science experts, are compared with the operational (integrated)…

A survey of over 700 Ontario secondary schools was conducted in 1987 and again in 1989 to determine the current status of computer programing pedagogy. Presents an overview of the computer education curriculum for grades 10-12 and results related to hardware utilization, choice of programing languages, availability of teacher and student…

Assesses the results of introducing individualized learning contracts (ILCs), journal writing, and journal sharing into a computer literacy course at Prince George's Community College, focusing on the effects on student satisfaction and student success rates. (DMM)

Describes shortcomings of computer science/engineering education and explains a new focus on informatics. Highlights include simulation, visualization, algorithmization, design of information processing models, parallel computing, a history of informatics, informatics versus physics and mathematics, and implications for education. (51 references)…

Discussion of the socially situated and constrained nature of educational computing focuses on situated critical pedagogy and computer education. Four areas are highlighted in an examination of teaching/learning situations: (1) praxis, i.e., a relationship between action and reflection; (2) situated critical pedagogy; (3) interpretive processes;…

Presents background material leading to the development of guidelines for computer science education teacher preparation programs. An overview of the two basic programs is presented, implications for professional education units and the education community are explored, and future directions are identified. (GLR)

Focuses on identifying the educational effects of "activity oriented" instructional techniques. Examines which instructional methods produce enhanced learning and comprehension. Discusses the problem of learning "sorting algorithms," a major topic in every Computer Science curriculum. Presents a low-tech, hands-on teaching method for sorting…

Reports on a decline in computer-science faculty despite rising student enrollments of computer-science majors. The faculty decline is ascribed to increasing jobs competition from industry and a decline in the number of doctorates being awarded in computer science and computer engineering. (DB)

A 32-item self-efficacy scale for computer programming was developed, primed to the C++ programming language. The scale was administered to 421 students at the beginning and end of an introductory course in C++ programming. There was growth in self-efficacy between two administrations of the scale 12 weeks apart, particularly for students who…

Describes a program at Fontbonne College (Missouri) by the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science and Office of Multicultural Affairs that identified eight high-risk, first- and second-year students and matched them with four alumni mentors as part of a one-credit career management course. Evaluation showed improved academic performance…

Presents an interview with Jeff Hawkins, creator of the Palm Pilot technology. Hawkins discusses his interest in neurobiology and how it has shaped and will shape the technology he designs. (WRM)

Analyzed women's enrollment levels in mathematics, engineering, and computer science in Canadian universities and the change in these levels between 1972 and 1995. Found vastly different patterns of enrollment in the three disciplines (for example, computer science enrollment did not increase at all during the studied period), suggesting that…