CPATH|monitor » Awardees» Computational Thinking Showcase: Computing Concepts Across the Curriculum
Computational Thinking Showcase: Computing Concepts Across the Curriculum
"All recognize the pressing need for more computer science graduates, as well as the often unappealing nature of introductory classes. The goal of this project is to showcase and teach the skills necessary to thrive in computer science, while engaging a diverse student body at a variety of education levels. In order to revitalize undergraduate education in computer science and address the need for an increase in undergraduate majors, this project will use a novel three-fold approach. The community of college professors, high school teachers, and an industrial partner will plan and implement an exciting first exposure to computer science by engaging experiential learning. Interactive Learning Modules, developed by the collaboration team members at different institutions, will serve as a vehicle for bringing innovation to the classroom. These collaboration-based experiences throughout the computer science curriculum are encouraged through a number of mechanisms, including multi-institution teams, games, and research into effective design of curricula and modules. The modules themselves are expected to inspire creation of addition interactive modules, designed by students for students, identifying an aspect of computational thinking, a separate domain of its use and a variety of which in which the modules provides experiences. A summer seminar experience for teachers will provide credit hours as well as experience in using the learning modules. Evaluation will cover both formative and summative aspects."