Enriching introductory programming courses with non-intuitive probability experiments component

  • Authors:

  • Yana Kortsarts;Yulia Kempner

  • Affiliations:

  • Widener University, Chester, PA, USA;Holon Institute of Technology, Holon, Israel

  • Venue:
  • Proceedings of the 17th ACM annual conference on Innovation and technology in computer science education
  • Year:
  • 2012

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Abstract

Probability theory is branch of mathematics that plays one of the central roles, not only in computer science, but also in science at large. We present a way to integrate non-intuitive probability experiments into introductory programming courses. We consider a set of the probability problems in which the intuitive approach leads to the wrong solution. These problems are based on interesting scenarios, attractive to students, and could be successfully "translated" into programming assignments. We present and discuss numerical simulations and verification of the correct solution through the computational approach. The proposed enrichment provides opportunity to engage students in experimental problem solving. Surprising computational results enhance students' curiosity and interest. This component promotes active involvement in the course. In addition, these problems provide an opportunity to make a connection between mathematics and computer science topics. Such non-intuitive answers may be remembered by students and may promote better understanding in the basic probability course they take later