Enhancing CS programming lab courses using collaborative editors

  • Authors:
  • Timothy J. Hickey;John Langton;Richard Alterman

  • Affiliations:
  • Brandeis University, Waltham MA;Brandeis University, Waltham MA;Brandeis University, Waltham MA

  • Venue:
  • Journal of Computing Sciences in Colleges
  • Year:
  • 2005

Quantified Score

Hi-index 0.00

Visualization

Abstract

This paper describes the pedagogical implications of the GREWPtool (the Groupware Research in Education and the Workforce Project), a same time different place groupware tool built to support synchronous, collaborative coding among small to medium sized groups. GREWPtool exploits the educational benefits of paired programming while extending the model to allow students synchronous control of the same code. This effectively drops the constraints of turn taking, and allows for a richer interaction. The result was a powerful tool that can be used to provide interactive lectures, structure classroom activity, and facilitate paired programming during labs. In this paper we present the design and use of GREWPtool with an emphasis on how it enhances the classroom experience. In particular, we give a qualitative analysis of how this tool has been used in six lab courses over the past two years.