Balancing depth and breadth in the data structures course

  • Authors:

  • Karina Assiter

  • Affiliations:

  • Wentworth Institute of Technology, Boston, MA

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

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Abstract

The data structures (CS 103) course in a computer science curriculum is the bridge between the CS 101/CS 102 sequence, which introduces the fundamentals of programming, and the algorithms course, which emphasizes rigorous analysis. The challenge for CS 103 instructors is to balance the breadth and depth of coverage of data structures material: pacing the assignment of projects with lectures so that all of the fundamental data structure topics are covered, and assigning large-scale projects to students without overwhelming them with time and complexity requirements. To address this challenge, this paper proposes an approach that combines pair programming, weekly assigned large-scale student-centered projects, web-based portfolios, a multiple-intelligence focus for material presentation [3], and process log (journal) entries submitted in conjunction with assignments. The approach is evaluated with an analysis of student questionnaires and an evaluation of written responses from students' process-logs. This paper documents the research and suggests directions for further study.