Designing CS1 as an eye-opening tool to the utility of computer science and a research-initiating tool

  • Authors:

  • Myung Ah Park

  • Affiliations:

  • University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, OK

  • Venue:
  • Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges
  • Year:
  • 2010

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Abstract

This paper discusses the practice of how CS1, the first programming course in the curriculum, has been used as an eye-opening tool to the utility of computer science and also as a tool to lead lower-division students in taking their first steps toward research. Meaningful projects connected to the real world are very important in motivating and engaging students. Specifically, simulation of real-world applications can bring an eye-opening experience to students. Through these simulations, students can learn how real-world applications can be built on the basic programming constructs discussed in the class. Furthermore, this experience can encourage students to take the first step toward research. In addition to the simulation-based projects for CS1, this study also discusses the lower division student research that was derived from one of these projects and the experience with it.