Sample records for computer programming students

  1. Gender differences in the use of computers, programming, and peer interactions in computer science classrooms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stoilescu, Dorian; Egodawatte, Gunawardena

    2010-12-01

    Research shows that female and male students in undergraduate computer science programs view computer culture differently. Female students are interested more in the use of computers than in doing programming, whereas male students see computer science mainly as a programming activity. The overall purpose of our research was not to find new definitions for computer science culture but to see how male and female students see themselves involved in computer science practices, how they see computer science as a successful career, and what they like and dislike about current computer science practices. The study took place in a mid-sized university in Ontario. Sixteen students and two instructors were interviewed to get their views. We found that male and female views are different on computer use, programming, and the pattern of student interactions. Female and male students did not have any major issues in using computers. In computing programming, female students were not so involved in computing activities whereas male students were heavily involved. As for the opinions about successful computer science professionals, both female and male students emphasized hard working, detailed oriented approaches, and enjoying playing with computers. The myth of the geek as a typical profile of successful computer science students was not found to be true.

  2. Gender Differences in the Use of Computers, Programming, and Peer Interactions in Computer Science Classrooms

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stoilescu, Dorian; Egodawatte, Gunawardena

    2010-01-01

    Research shows that female and male students in undergraduate computer science programs view computer culture differently. Female students are interested more in the use of computers than in doing programming, whereas male students see computer science mainly as a programming activity. The overall purpose of our research was not to find new…

  3. Promoting healthy computer use among middle school students: a pilot school-based health promotion program.

    PubMed

    Ciccarelli, Marina; Portsmouth, Linda; Harris, Courtenay; Jacobs, Karen

    2012-01-01

    Introduction of notebook computers in many schools has become integral to learning. This has increased students' screen-based exposure and the potential risks to physical and visual health. Unhealthy computing behaviours include frequent and long durations of exposure; awkward postures due to inappropriate furniture and workstation layout, and ignoring computer-related discomfort. Describe the framework for a planned school-based health promotion program to encourage healthy computing behaviours among middle school students. This planned program uses a community- based participatory research approach. Students in Year 7 in 2011 at a co-educational middle school, their parents, and teachers have been recruited. Baseline data was collected on students' knowledge of computer ergonomics, current notebook exposure, and attitudes towards healthy computing behaviours; and teachers' and self-perceived competence to promote healthy notebook use among students, and what education they wanted. The health promotion program is being developed by an inter-professional team in collaboration with students, teachers and parents to embed concepts of ergonomics education in relevant school activities and school culture. End of year changes in reported and observed student computing behaviours will be used to determine the effectiveness of the program. Building a body of evidence regarding physical health benefits to students from this school-based ergonomics program can guide policy development on the healthy use of computers within children's educational environments.

  4. Personalized Computer-Assisted Mathematics Problem-Solving Program and Its Impact on Taiwanese Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chen, Chiu-Jung; Liu, Pei-Lin

    2007-01-01

    This study evaluated the effects of a personalized computer-assisted mathematics problem-solving program on the performance and attitude of Taiwanese fourth grade students. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the personalized computer-assisted program improved student performance and attitude over the nonpersonalized program.…

  5. Developing Student Programming and Problem-Solving Skills with Visual Basic

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Siegle, Del

    2009-01-01

    Although most computer users will never need to write a computer program, many students enjoy the challenge of creating one. Computer programming enhances students' problem solving by forcing students to break a problem into its component pieces and reassemble it in a generic format that can be understood by a nonsentient entity. It promotes…

  6. Enhancing programming logic thinking using analogy mapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sukamto, R. A.; Megasari, R.

    2018-05-01

    Programming logic thinking is the most important competence for computer science students. However, programming is one of the difficult subject in computer science program. This paper reports our work about enhancing students' programming logic thinking using Analogy Mapping for basic programming subject. Analogy Mapping is a computer application which converts source code into analogies images. This research used time series evaluation and the result showed that Analogy Mapping can enhance students' programming logic thinking.

  7. A Two-Tier Test-Based Approach to Improving Students' Computer-Programming Skills in a Web-Based Learning Environment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yang, Tzu-Chi; Hwang, Gwo-Jen; Yang, Stephen J. H.; Hwang, Gwo-Haur

    2015-01-01

    Computer programming is an important skill for engineering and computer science students. However, teaching and learning programming concepts and skills has been recognized as a great challenge to both teachers and students. Therefore, the development of effective learning strategies and environments for programming courses has become an important…

  8. Evaluating the Effectiveness of Self-Created Student Screencasts as a Tool to Increase Student Learning Outcomes in a Hands-On Computer Programming Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Powell, Loreen M.; Wimmer, Hayden

    2015-01-01

    Computer programming is challenging to teach and difficult for students to learn. Instructors have searched for ways to improve student learning in programming courses. In an attempt to foster hands-on learning and to increase student learning outcomes in a programming course, the authors conducted an exploratory study to examine student created…

  9. Using the TouchMath Program to Teach Mathematical Computation to At-Risk Students and Students with Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ellingsen, Ryleigh; Clinton, Elias

    2017-01-01

    This manuscript reviews the empirical literature of the TouchMath© instructional program. The TouchMath© program is a commercial mathematics series that uses a dot notation system to provide multisensory instruction of computation skills. Using the program, students are taught to solve computational tasks in a multisensory manner that does not…

  10. Changing the Paradigm: Preparing Students for the Computing Profession in the 21st Century

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Robbins, Kay A.

    2003-01-01

    The dramatic technological developments of the past decade have led to a tremendous growth in the demand for computer science professionals well-versed in advanced technology and techniques. NASA, traditionally a haven for cutting-edge innovators, is now competing with every industrial and government sector for computer science talent. The computer science program at University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) faces challenges beyond those intrinsically presented by rapid technological change, because a significant number of UTSA students come from low-income families with no Internet or computer access at home. An examination of enrollment statistics for the computer science program at UTSA showed that very few students who entered as freshmen successfully graduated. The upper division courses appeared to be populated by graduate students removing deficiencies and by transfer students. The faculty was also concerned that the students who did graduate from the program did not have the strong technical and programming skills that the CS program had been noted for in the community during the 1980's.

  11. Student Use of Physics to Make Sense of Incomplete but Functional VPython Programs in a Lab Setting

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Weatherford, Shawn A.

    2011-12-01

    Computational activities in Matter & Interactions, an introductory calculus-based physics course, have the instructional goal of providing students with the experience of applying the same set of a small number of fundamental principles to model a wide range of physical systems. However there are significant instructional challenges for students to build computer programs under limited time constraints, especially for students who are unfamiliar with programming languages and concepts. Prior attempts at designing effective computational activities were successful at having students ultimately build working VPython programs under the tutelage of experienced teaching assistants in a studio lab setting. A pilot study revealed that students who completed these computational activities had significant difficultly repeating the exact same tasks and further, had difficulty predicting the animation that would be produced by the example program after interpreting the program code. This study explores the interpretation and prediction tasks as part of an instructional sequence where students are asked to read and comprehend a functional, but incomplete program. Rather than asking students to begin their computational tasks with modifying program code, we explicitly ask students to interpret an existing program that is missing key lines of code. The missing lines of code correspond to the algebraic form of fundamental physics principles or the calculation of forces which would exist between analogous physical objects in the natural world. Students are then asked to draw a prediction of what they would see in the simulation produced by the VPython program and ultimately run the program to evaluate the students' prediction. This study specifically looks at how the participants use physics while interpreting the program code and creating a whiteboard prediction. This study also examines how students evaluate their understanding of the program and modification goals at the beginning of the modification task. While working in groups over the course of a semester, study participants were recorded while they completed three activities using these incomplete programs. Analysis of the video data showed that study participants had little difficulty interpreting physics quantities, generating a prediction, or determining how to modify the incomplete program. Participants did not base their prediction solely from the information from the incomplete program. When participants tried to predict the motion of the objects in the simulation, many turned to their knowledge of how the system would evolve if it represented an analogous real-world physical system. For example, participants attributed the real-world behavior of springs to helix objects even though the program did not include calculations for the spring to exert a force when stretched. Participants rarely interpreted lines of code in the computational loop during the first computational activity, but this changed during latter computational activities with most participants using their physics knowledge to interpret the computational loop. Computational activities in the Matter & Interactions curriculum were revised in light of these findings to include an instructional sequence of tasks to build a comprehension of the example program. The modified activities also ask students to create an additional whiteboard prediction for the time-evolution of the real-world phenomena which the example program will eventually model. This thesis shows how comprehension tasks identified by Palinscar and Brown (1984) as effective in improving reading comprehension are also effective in helping students apply their physics knowledge to interpret a computer program which attempts to model a real-world phenomena and identify errors in their understanding of the use, or omission, of fundamental physics principles in a computational model.

  12. Development and evaluation of a computer program to grade student performance on peripheral blood smears

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lehman, Donald Clifford

    Today's medical laboratories are dealing with cost containment health care policies and unfilled laboratory positions. Because there may be fewer experienced clinical laboratory scientists, students graduating from clinical laboratory science (CLS) programs are expected by their employers to perform accurately in entry-level positions with minimal training. Information in the CLS field is increasing at a dramatic rate, and instructors are expected to teach more content in the same amount of time with the same resources. With this increase in teaching obligations, instructors could use a tool to facilitate grading. The research question was, "Can computer-assisted assessment evaluate students in an accurate and time efficient way?" A computer program was developed to assess CLS students' ability to evaluate peripheral blood smears. Automated grading permits students to get results quicker and allows the laboratory instructor to devote less time to grading. This computer program could improve instruction by providing more time to students and instructors for other activities. To be valuable, the program should provide the same quality of grading as the instructor. These benefits must outweigh potential problems such as the time necessary to develop and maintain the program, monitoring of student progress by the instructor, and the financial cost of the computer software and hardware. In this study, surveys of students and an interview with the laboratory instructor were performed to provide a formative evaluation of the computer program. In addition, the grading accuracy of the computer program was examined. These results will be used to improve the program for use in future courses.

  13. Use of the Computer for Research on Instruction and Student Understanding in Physics.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grayson, Diane Jeanette

    This dissertation describes an investigation of how the computer may be utilized to perform research on instruction and on student understanding in physics. The research was conducted within three content areas: kinematics, waves and dynamics. The main focus of the research on instruction was the determination of factors needed for a computer program to be instructionally effective. The emphasis in the research on student understanding was the identification of specific conceptual and reasoning difficulties students encounter with the subject matter. Most of the research was conducted using the computer -based interview, a technique developed during the early part of the work, conducted within the domain of kinematics. In a computer-based interview, a student makes a prediction about how a particular system will behave under given circumstances, observes a simulation of the event on a computer screen, and then is asked by an interviewer to explain any discrepancy between prediction and observation. In the course of the research, a model was developed for producing educational software. The model has three important components: (i) research on student difficulties in the content area to be addressed, (ii) observations of students using the computer program, and (iii) consequent program modification. This model was used to guide the development of an instructional computer program dealing with graphical representations of transverse pulses. Another facet of the research involved the design of a computer program explicitly for the purposes of research. A computer program was written that simulates a modified Atwood's machine. The program was than used in computer -based interviews and proved to be an effective means of probing student understanding of dynamics concepts. In order to ascertain whether or not the student difficulties identified were peculiar to the computer, laboratory-based interviews with real equipment were also conducted. The laboratory-based interviews were designed to parallel the computer-based interviews as closely as possible. The results of both types of interviews are discussed in detail. The dissertation concludes with a discussion of some of the benefits of using the computer in physics instruction and physics education research. Attention is also drawn to some of the limitations of the computer as a research instrument or instructional device.

  14. Identification of Cognitive Processes of Effective and Ineffective Students during Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Renumol, V. G.; Janakiram, Dharanipragada; Jayaprakash, S.

    2010-01-01

    Identifying the set of cognitive processes (CPs) a student can go through during computer programming is an interesting research problem. It can provide a better understanding of the human aspects in computer programming process and can also contribute to the computer programming education in general. The study identified the presence of a set of…

  15. "Hour of Code": Can It Change Students' Attitudes toward Programming?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Du, Jie; Wimmer, Hayden; Rada, Roy

    2016-01-01

    The Hour of Code is a one-hour introduction to computer science organized by Code.org, a non-profit dedicated to expanding participation in computer science. This study investigated the impact of the Hour of Code on students' attitudes towards computer programming and their knowledge of programming. A sample of undergraduate students from two…

  16. The use of wireless laptop computers for computer-assisted learning in pharmacokinetics.

    PubMed

    Munar, Myrna Y; Singh, Harleen; Belle, Donna; Brackett, Carolyn C; Earle, Sandra B

    2006-02-15

    To implement computer-assisted learning workshops into pharmacokinetics courses in a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program. Workshops were designed for students to utilize computer software programs on laptop computers to build pharmacokinetic models to predict drug concentrations resulting from various dosage regimens. In addition, students were able to visualize through graphing programs how altering different parameters changed drug concentration-time curves. Surveys were conducted to measure students' attitudes toward computer technology before and after implementation. Finally, traditional examinations were used to evaluate student learning. Doctor of pharmacy students responded favorably to the use of wireless laptop computers in problem-based pharmacokinetic workshops. Eighty-eight percent (n = 61/69) and 82% (n = 55/67) of PharmD students completed surveys before and after computer implementation, respectively. Prior to implementation, 95% of students agreed that computers would enhance learning in pharmacokinetics. After implementation, 98% of students strongly agreed (p < 0.05) that computers enhanced learning. Examination results were significantly higher after computer implementation (89% with computers vs. 84% without computers; p = 0.01). Implementation of wireless laptop computers in a pharmacokinetic course enabled students to construct their own pharmacokinetic models that could respond to changing parameters. Students had greater comprehension and were better able to interpret results and provide appropriate recommendations. Computer-assisted pharmacokinetic techniques can be powerful tools when making decisions about drug therapy.

  17. Integrating hypermedia into the environmental education setting: Developing a program and evaluating its effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Parker, Tehri Davenport

    1997-09-01

    This study designed, implemented, and evaluated an environmental education hypermedia program for use in a residential environmental education facility. The purpose of the study was to ascertain whether a hypermedia program could increase student knowledge and positive attitudes toward the environment and environmental education. A student/computer interface, based on the theory of social cognition, was developed to direct student interactions with the computer. A quasi-experimental research design was used. Students were randomly assigned to either the experimental or control group. The experimental group used the hypermedia program to learn about the topic of energy. The control group received the same conceptual information from a teacher/naturalist. An Environmental Awareness Quiz was administered to measure differences in the students' cognitive understanding of energy issues. Students participated in one on one interviews to discuss their attitudes toward the lesson and the overall environmental education experience. Additionally, members of the experimental group were tape recorded while they used the hypermedia program. These tapes were analyzed to identify aspects of the hypermedia program that promoted student learning. The findings of this study suggest that computers, and hypermedia programs, can be integrated into residential environmental education facilities, and can assist environmental educators in meeting their goals for students. The study found that the hypermedia program was as effective as the teacher/naturalist for teaching about environmental education material. Students who used the computer reported more positive attitudes toward the lesson on energy, and thought that they had learned more than the control group. Students in the control group stated that they did not learn as much as the computer group. The majority of students had positive attitudes toward the inclusion of computers in the camp setting, and stated that they were a good way to learn about environmental education material. This study also identified lack of social skills as a barrier to social cognition among mixed gender groups using the computer program.

  18. Causal Attributions of Success and Failure Made by Undergraduate Students in an Introductory-Level Computer Programming Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hawi, N.

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of this research is to identify the causal attributions of business computing students in an introductory computer programming course, in the computer science department at Notre Dame University, Louaize. Forty-five male and female undergraduates who completed the computer programming course that extended for a 13-week semester…

  19. Effectiveness of a Case-Based Computer Program on Students' Ethical Decision Making.

    PubMed

    Park, Eun-Jun; Park, Mihyun

    2015-11-01

    The aim of this study was to test the effectiveness of a case-based computer program, using an integrative ethical decision-making model, on the ethical decision-making competency of nursing students in South Korea. This study used a pre- and posttest comparison design. Students in the intervention group used a computer program for case analysis assignments, whereas students in the standard group used a traditional paper assignment for case analysis. The findings showed that using the case-based computer program as a complementary tool for the ethics courses offered at the university enhanced students' ethical preparedness and satisfaction with the course. On the basis of the findings, it is recommended that nurse educators use a case-based computer program as a complementary self-study tool in ethics courses to supplement student learning without an increase in course hours, particularly in terms of analyzing ethics cases with dilemma scenarios and exercising ethical decision making. Copyright 2015, SLACK Incorporated.

  20. An Analysis on Distance Education Computer Programming Students' Attitudes Regarding Programming and Their Self-Efficacy for Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ozyurt, Ozcan

    2015-01-01

    This study aims to analyze the attitudes of students studying computer programming through the distance education regarding programming, and their self-efficacy for programming and the relation between these two factors. The study is conducted with 104 students being thought with distance education in a university in the north region of Turkey in…

  1. Enhancing Students' Computer Programming Performances, Critical Thinking Awareness and Attitudes towards Programming: An Online Peer-Assessment Attempt

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wang, Xiao-Ming; Hwang, Gwo-Jen; Liang, Zi-Yun; Wang, Hsiu-Ying

    2017-01-01

    It has become an important and challenging issue to foster students' concepts and skills of computer programming. Scholars believe that programming training could promote students' higher order thinking performance; however, many school teachers have reported the difficulty of teaching programming courses. Although several previous studies have…

  2. The Use of Wireless Laptop Computers for Computer-Assisted Learning in Pharmacokinetics

    PubMed Central

    Munar, Myrna Y.; Singh, Harleen; Belle, Donna; Brackett, Carolyn C.; Earle, Sandra B.

    2006-01-01

    Objective To implement computer-assisted learning workshops into pharmacokinetics courses in a doctor of pharmacy (PharmD) program. Design Workshops were designed for students to utilize computer software programs on laptop computers to build pharmacokinetic models to predict drug concentrations resulting from various dosage regimens. In addition, students were able to visualize through graphing programs how altering different parameters changed drug concentration-time curves. Surveys were conducted to measure students’ attitudes toward computer technology before and after implementation. Finally, traditional examinations were used to evaluate student learning. Assessment Doctor of pharmacy students responded favorably to the use of wireless laptop computers in problem-based pharmacokinetic workshops. Eighty-eight percent (n = 61/69) and 82% (n = 55/67) of PharmD students completed surveys before and after computer implementation, respectively. Prior to implementation, 95% of students agreed that computers would enhance learning in pharmacokinetics. After implementation, 98% of students strongly agreed (p < 0.05) that computers enhanced learning. Examination results were significantly higher after computer implementation (89% with computers vs. 84% without computers; p = 0.01). Conclusion Implementation of wireless laptop computers in a pharmacokinetic course enabled students to construct their own pharmacokinetic models that could respond to changing parameters. Students had greater comprehension and were better able to interpret results and provide appropriate recommendations. Computer-assisted pharmacokinetic techniques can be powerful tools when making decisions about drug therapy. PMID:17136147

  3. Research and Teaching: Computational Methods in General Chemistry--Perceptions of Programming, Prior Experience, and Student Outcomes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wheeler, Lindsay B.; Chiu, Jennie L.; Grisham, Charles M.

    2016-01-01

    This article explores how integrating computational tools into a general chemistry laboratory course can influence student perceptions of programming and investigates relationships among student perceptions, prior experience, and student outcomes.

  4. Using Software Tools to Automate the Assessment of Student Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jackson, David

    1991-01-01

    Argues that advent of computer-aided instruction (CAI) systems for teaching introductory computer programing makes it imperative that software be developed to automate assessment and grading of student programs. Examples of typical student programing problems are given, and application of the Unix tools Lex and Yacc to the automatic assessment of…

  5. The ISCB Student Council Internship Program: Expanding computational biology capacity worldwide.

    PubMed

    Anupama, Jigisha; Francescatto, Margherita; Rahman, Farzana; Fatima, Nazeefa; DeBlasio, Dan; Shanmugam, Avinash Kumar; Satagopam, Venkata; Santos, Alberto; Kolekar, Pandurang; Michaut, Magali; Guney, Emre

    2018-01-01

    Education and training are two essential ingredients for a successful career. On one hand, universities provide students a curriculum for specializing in one's field of study, and on the other, internships complement coursework and provide invaluable training experience for a fruitful career. Consequently, undergraduates and graduates are encouraged to undertake an internship during the course of their degree. The opportunity to explore one's research interests in the early stages of their education is important for students because it improves their skill set and gives their career a boost. In the long term, this helps to close the gap between skills and employability among students across the globe and balance the research capacity in the field of computational biology. However, training opportunities are often scarce for computational biology students, particularly for those who reside in less-privileged regions. Aimed at helping students develop research and academic skills in computational biology and alleviating the divide across countries, the Student Council of the International Society for Computational Biology introduced its Internship Program in 2009. The Internship Program is committed to providing access to computational biology training, especially for students from developing regions, and improving competencies in the field. Here, we present how the Internship Program works and the impact of the internship opportunities so far, along with the challenges associated with this program.

  6. Gender Digital Divide and Challenges in Undergraduate Computer Science Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stoilescu, Dorian; McDougall, Douglas

    2011-01-01

    Previous research revealed a reduced number of female students registered in computer science studies. In addition, the female students feel isolated, have reduced confidence, and underperform. This article explores differences between female and male students in undergraduate computer science programs in a mid-size university in Ontario. Based on…

  7. Students' Attitudes towards Control Methods in Computer-Assisted Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hintze, Hanne; And Others

    1988-01-01

    Describes study designed to investigate dental students' attitudes toward computer-assisted teaching as applied in programs for oral radiology in Denmark. Programs using personal computers and slide projectors with varying degrees of learner and teacher control are described, and differences in attitudes between male and female students are…

  8. Laptops and Inspired Writing

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Warschauer, Mark; Arada, Kathleen; Zheng, Binbin

    2010-01-01

    Can daily access to laptop computers help students become better writers? Are such programs affordable? Evidence from the Inspired Writing program in Littleton Public Schools, Colorado, USA, provides a resounding yes to both questions. The program employs student netbooks, open-source software, cloud computing, and social media to help students in…

  9. A Successful Bootstrap Program for Infusion of Computer Competencies into a School of Education Curriculum.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Van Dusseldorp, Ralph

    1984-01-01

    Describes the successful, low-cost program for infusion of computer competencies into the curriculum of the School of Education at the University of Alaska, Anchorage, where all students are required to become computer competent prior to graduation. Computer competency goals for students in school's certification programs are outlined. (MBR)

  10. Beyond the Star Trek Syndrome to an Egalitarian Future: "Where No One Has Gone Before." PEER Computer Equity Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cusick, Theresa; And Others

    This examination of computer equity argues that current educational trends--which emphasize teaching applications of computers rather than programming--will limit the computer skills of students. Added to this difficulty is the argument that some students (often minority and female students) need not be pushed to learn programming if they don't…

  11. Student Achievement in Computer Programming: Lecture vs Computer-Aided Instruction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tsai, San-Yun W.; Pohl, Norval F.

    1978-01-01

    This paper discusses a study of the differences in student learning achievement, as measured by four different types of common performance evaluation techniques, in a college-level computer programming course under three teaching/learning environments: lecture, computer-aided instruction, and lecture supplemented with computer-aided instruction.…

  12. Using POGIL to Help Students Learn to Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hu, Helen H.; Shepherd, Tricia D.

    2013-01-01

    POGIL has been successfully implemented in a scientific computing course to teach science students how to program in Python. Following POGIL guidelines, the authors have developed guided inquiry activities that lead student teams to discover and understand programming concepts. With each iteration of the scientific computing course, the authors…

  13. Student Performance in Computer-Assisted Instruction in Programming.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Friend, Jamesine E.; And Others

    A computer-assisted instructional system to teach college students the computer language, AID (Algebraic Interpretive Dialogue), two control programs, and data collected by the two control programs are described. It was found that although first response errors were often those of AID syntax, such errors were easily corrected. Secondly, while…

  14. Undergraduate computational physics projects on quantum computing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Candela, D.

    2015-08-01

    Computational projects on quantum computing suitable for students in a junior-level quantum mechanics course are described. In these projects students write their own programs to simulate quantum computers. Knowledge is assumed of introductory quantum mechanics through the properties of spin 1/2. Initial, more easily programmed projects treat the basics of quantum computation, quantum gates, and Grover's quantum search algorithm. These are followed by more advanced projects to increase the number of qubits and implement Shor's quantum factoring algorithm. The projects can be run on a typical laptop or desktop computer, using most programming languages. Supplementing resources available elsewhere, the projects are presented here in a self-contained format especially suitable for a short computational module for physics students.

  15. Demographics of undergraduates studying games in the United States: a comparison of computer science students and the general population

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McGill, Monica M.; Settle, Amber; Decker, Adrienne

    2013-06-01

    Our study gathered data to serve as a benchmark of demographics of undergraduate students in game degree programs. Due to the high number of programs that are cross-disciplinary with computer science programs or that are housed in computer science departments, the data is presented in comparison to data from computing students (where available) and the US population. Participants included students studying games at four nationally recognized postsecondary institutions. The results of the study indicate that there is no significant difference between the ratio of men to women studying in computing programs or in game degree programs, with women being severely underrepresented in both. Women, blacks, Hispanics/Latinos, and heterosexuals are underrepresented compared to the US population. Those with moderate and conservative political views and with religious affiliations are underrepresented in the game student population. Participants agree that workforce diversity is important and that their programs are adequately diverse, but only one-half of the participants indicated that diversity has been discussed in any of their courses.

  16. Action Research of Computer-Assisted-Remediation of Basic Research Concepts.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Packard, Abbot L.; And Others

    This study investigated the possibility of creating a computer-assisted remediation program to assist students having difficulties in basic college research and statistics courses. A team approach involving instructors and students drove the research into and creation of the computer program. The effect of student use was reviewed by looking at…

  17. Student Computer Dialogs Without Special Purpose Languages.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bork, Alfred

    The phrase "student computer dialogs" refers to interactive sessions between the student and the computer. Rather than using programing languages specifically designed for computer assisted instruction (CAI), existing general purpose languages should be emphasized in the future development of student computer dialogs, as the power and…

  18. Programs for attracting under-represented minority students to graduate school and research careers in computational science. Final report for period October 1, 1995 - September 30, 1997

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Turner, James C. Jr.; Mason, Thomas; Guerrieri, Bruno

    1997-10-01

    Programs have been established at Florida A & M University to attract minority students to research careers in mathematics and computational science. The primary goal of the program was to increase the number of such students studying computational science via an interactive multimedia learning environment One mechanism used for meeting this goal was the development of educational modules. This academic year program established within the mathematics department at Florida A&M University, introduced students to computational science projects using high-performance computers. Additional activities were conducted during the summer, these included workshops, meetings, and lectures. Through the exposure provided by this programmore » to scientific ideas and research in computational science, it is likely that their successful applications of tools from this interdisciplinary field will be high.« less

  19. Programmed Instruction for Teaching Java: Consideration of Learn Unit Frequency and Rule-Test Performance

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Emurian, Henry H.

    2007-01-01

    At the beginning of a Java computer programming course, nine students in an undergraduate class and nine students in a graduate class completed a web-based programmed instruction tutoring system that taught a simple computer program. All students exited the tutor with an identical level of skill, at least as determined by the tutor's required…

  20. The ISCB Student Council Internship Program: Expanding computational biology capacity worldwide

    PubMed Central

    Anupama, Jigisha; Shanmugam, Avinash Kumar; Santos, Alberto; Michaut, Magali

    2018-01-01

    Education and training are two essential ingredients for a successful career. On one hand, universities provide students a curriculum for specializing in one’s field of study, and on the other, internships complement coursework and provide invaluable training experience for a fruitful career. Consequently, undergraduates and graduates are encouraged to undertake an internship during the course of their degree. The opportunity to explore one’s research interests in the early stages of their education is important for students because it improves their skill set and gives their career a boost. In the long term, this helps to close the gap between skills and employability among students across the globe and balance the research capacity in the field of computational biology. However, training opportunities are often scarce for computational biology students, particularly for those who reside in less-privileged regions. Aimed at helping students develop research and academic skills in computational biology and alleviating the divide across countries, the Student Council of the International Society for Computational Biology introduced its Internship Program in 2009. The Internship Program is committed to providing access to computational biology training, especially for students from developing regions, and improving competencies in the field. Here, we present how the Internship Program works and the impact of the internship opportunities so far, along with the challenges associated with this program. PMID:29346365

  1. Conceptions of Programming: A Study into Learning To Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Booth, Shirley

    This paper reports the results of a phenomenographic study which focused on identifying and describing the conceptions of programming and related phenomena of about 120 computer science and computer engineering students learning to program. The report begins by tracing developments in the students' conceptions of programming and its parts, and…

  2. A Computer Course for Business Students: Teacher's Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Waterhouse, Ann

    This teacher's guide is for a course designed to teach business students the fundamentals of the BASIC language and computer programming using a series of business-oriented programs. Each lesson contains an introduction, flow charts, and computer programs. The six lesson topics are print-out and format control, count-average, withholding tax…

  3. Adult Learning in a Computer-Based ESL Acquisition Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sanchez, Karen Renee

    2013-01-01

    This study explores the self-efficacy of students learning English as a Second Language on the computer-based Rosetta Stone program. The research uses a qualitative approach to explore how a readily available computer-based learning program, Rosetta Stone, can help adult immigrant students gain some English competence and so acquire a greater…

  4. For Drafting Programs--Computer Graphics in Industrial Tech.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sutliff, Ron

    1980-01-01

    Posits that computer-aided drafting and design should be introduced to students in industrial technology programs. Discusses ways the technical educator can get involved in computer graphics to familiarize students with it without a large outlay of money. (JOW)

  5. Student Science Training Program in Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science. Final Report to the National Science Foundation. Artificial Intelligence Memo No. 393.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Abelson, Harold; diSessa, Andy

    During the summer of 1976, the MIT Artificial Intelligence Laboratory sponsored a Student Science Training Program in Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science for high ability secondary school students. This report describes, in some detail, the style of the program, the curriculum and the projects the students under-took. It is hoped that this…

  6. The Bronx Computer Literacy and Methodologies of Bilingual Education Program for Vietnamese and Cambodian High School Students: Project CLIMB. Evaluation Section Report. OREA Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berney, Tomi D.; Keyes, Jose L.

    The Bronx Computer Literacy and Methodologies of Bilingual Education Program for Vietnamese and Cambodian High School Students (Project CLIMB) served 221 students of limited English proficiency (LEP) at Christopher Columbus and Walton High Schools in the Bronx (New York City). The objectives of the program were to develop the students' academic…

  7. Dragonfly: strengthening programming skills by building a game engine from scratch

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Claypool, Mark

    2013-06-01

    Computer game development has been shown to be an effective hook for motivating students to learn both introductory and advanced computer science topics. While games can be made from scratch, to simplify the programming required game development often uses game engines that handle complicated or frequently used components of the game. These game engines present the opportunity to strengthen programming skills and expose students to a range of fundamental computer science topics. While educational efforts have been effective in using game engines to improve computer science education, there have been no published papers describing and evaluating students building a game engine from scratch as part of their course work. This paper presents the Dragonfly-approach in which students build a fully functional game engine from scratch and make a game using their engine as part of a junior-level course. Details on the programming projects are presented, as well as an evaluation of the results from two offerings that used Dragonfly. Student performance on the projects as well as student assessments demonstrates the efficacy of having students build a game engine from scratch in strengthening their programming skills.

  8. Using Arduino to Teach Programming to First-Year Computer Science Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tan, Wee Lum; Venema, Sven; Gonzalez, Ruben

    2017-01-01

    Transitioning to university is recognised as a challenging endeavour for commencing students. For commencing Computer Science students specifically, evidence suggests a link between poor performance in introductory technical courses, such as programming, and high attrition rates. Building resilience in students, particularly at the start of their…

  9. Partnering with IT to Help Disadvantaged Students Achieve Academic Success

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clarke, Janet H.

    2012-01-01

    This case study will describe how the Stony Brook University Libraries instruction program partnered with another student support service (student computing office) to nurture a relationship with the Educational Opportunities Program (EOP) over several years to provide their students with the library research and computer skills needed to succeed…

  10. Introducing Students to Computer Programming on a UNIX Time-Sharing System.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cook, Allen R.

    1983-01-01

    Reviews experiences in teaching computer programing to engineering freshmen at the University of Oklahoma. Focuses on the stimulating interactive environment that is possible when using the UNIX operating system to introduce students to programing. (JN)

  11. US Department of Energy High School Student Supercomputing Honors Program: A follow-up assessment

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Not Available

    1987-01-01

    The US DOE High School Student Supercomputing Honors Program was designed to recognize high school students with superior skills in mathematics and computer science and to provide them with formal training and experience with advanced computer equipment. This document reports on the participants who attended the first such program, which was held at the National Magnetic Fusion Energy Computer Center at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) during August 1985.

  12. The Computer as a Teaching Aid for Eleventh Grade Mathematics: A Comparison Study.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kieren, Thomas Ervin

    To determine the effect of learning computer programming and the use of a computer on mathematical achievement of eleventh grade students, for each of two years, average and above average students were randomly assigned to an experimental and control group. The experimental group wrote computer programs and used the output from the computer in…

  13. EZLP: An Interactive Computer Program for Solving Linear Programming Problems. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jarvis, John J.; And Others

    Designed for student use in solving linear programming problems, the interactive computer program described (EZLP) permits the student to input the linear programming model in exactly the same manner in which it would be written on paper. This report includes a brief review of the development of EZLP; narrative descriptions of program features,…

  14. The Effectiveness of Computer-Based EFL Instruction among Primary School Students in Israel

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shamir, Haya; Johnson, Erin Phinney

    2012-01-01

    This paper presents an effectiveness study of a computer-based English reading program, the Waterford Early Reading Program (WERP), among first and second grade students in Israel. Students who used the program were compared to a control group only receiving English as a foreign language (EFL) instruction as part of the school curriculum. First…

  15. The Identification, Implementation, and Evaluation of Critical User Interface Design Features of Computer-Assisted Instruction Programs in Mathematics for Students with Learning Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seo, You-Jin; Woo, Honguk

    2010-01-01

    Critical user interface design features of computer-assisted instruction programs in mathematics for students with learning disabilities and corresponding implementation guidelines were identified in this study. Based on the identified features and guidelines, a multimedia computer-assisted instruction program, "Math Explorer", which delivers…

  16. Integrating Computational Science Tools into a Thermodynamics Course

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vieira, Camilo; Magana, Alejandra J.; García, R. Edwin; Jana, Aniruddha; Krafcik, Matthew

    2018-01-01

    Computational tools and methods have permeated multiple science and engineering disciplines, because they enable scientists and engineers to process large amounts of data, represent abstract phenomena, and to model and simulate complex concepts. In order to prepare future engineers with the ability to use computational tools in the context of their disciplines, some universities have started to integrate these tools within core courses. This paper evaluates the effect of introducing three computational modules within a thermodynamics course on student disciplinary learning and self-beliefs about computation. The results suggest that using worked examples paired to computer simulations to implement these modules have a positive effect on (1) student disciplinary learning, (2) student perceived ability to do scientific computing, and (3) student perceived ability to do computer programming. These effects were identified regardless of the students' prior experiences with computer programming.

  17. Individual Specialist versus Group Preparation for a Computer Programming Contest Involving Secondary Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McAllister, Deborah A.

    1994-01-01

    This dissertation investigates the effects of two different grouping strategies on secondary students concerning their preparation for, and performance at, a computer programming contest. Students were divided into two groups, experimental and control, for a 3-week treatment, followed by the contest. Students in the experimental group became…

  18. Writing and Computing across the USM Chemistry Curriculum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gordon, Nancy R.; Newton, Thomas A.; Rhodes, Gale; Ricci, John S.; Stebbins, Richard G.; Tracy, Henry J.

    2001-01-01

    The faculty of the University of Southern Maine believes the ability to communicate effectively is one of the most important skills required of successful chemists. To help students achieve that goal, the faculty has developed a Writing and Computer Program consisting of writing and computer assignments of gradually increasing sophistication for all our laboratory courses. The assignments build in complexity until, at the junior level, students are writing full journal-quality laboratory reports. Computer assignments also increase in difficulty as students attack more complicated subjects. We have found the program easy to initiate and our part-time faculty concurs as well. The Writing and Computing across the Curriculum Program also serves to unite the entire chemistry curriculum. We believe the program is helping to reverse what the USM chemistry faculty and other educators have found to be a steady deterioration in the writing skills of many of today's students.

  19. CMX: The Effects of an Educational MMORPG on Learning and Teaching Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Malliarakis, Christos; Satratzemi, Maya; Xinogalos, Stelios

    2017-01-01

    Computer programming has for decades posed several difficulties for students of all educational levels. A number of teaching approaches have been proposed over the years but none seems to fulfil the needs of students nowadays. Students use computers mainly for playing games and the Internet and as quite a few researchers state this aspect of…

  20. Comprehensive Computer-Based Instructional Programs: What Works for Educationally Disadvantaged Students?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Swan, Karen; And Others

    The Computer Pilot Program of the Division of Computer Information Services of the New York City Board of Education was designed to investigate the claim that comprehensive computer-based instruction (CBI) might best be used to improve the basic skills of educationally disadvantaged students. This ongoing project is designed to identify…

  1. Pilot of a computer-based brief multiple-health behavior intervention for college students.

    PubMed

    Moore, Michele J; Werch, Chudley E; Bian, Hui

    2012-01-01

    Given the documented multiple health risks college students engage in, and the dearth of effective programs addressing them, the authors developed a computer-based brief multiple-health behavior intervention. This study reports immediate outcomes and feasibility of a pilot of this program. Two hundred students attending a midsized university participated. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention or control program, both delivered via computer. Immediate feedback was collected with the computer program. Results indicate that the intervention had an early positive impact on alcohol and cigarette use intentions, as well as related constructs underlying the Behavior-Image Model specific to each of the 3 substances measured. Based on the implementation process, the program proved to be feasible to use and acceptable to the population. Results support the potential efficacy of the intervention to positively impact behavioral intentions and linkages between health promoting and damaging behaviors among college students.

  2. Ecologic study of children's use of a computer nutrition education program.

    PubMed

    Matheson, D; Achterberg, C

    2001-01-01

    The purpose of this research was to describe the context created by students as they worked in groups on a nutrition computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program. Students worked on the program in groups of three. Observational methods were used to collect data from students in two sixth-grade classrooms that were part of an experimental program designed to restructure the educational process. Thirty-two students, from 12 groups, were observed as they completed the program. The groups were assigned by the teachers according to standard principles of cooperative learning. Students completed "Ship to Shore," a program designed specifically for this research. The program required three to five 50-minute classroom periods to complete. The objectives of the program were to change children's knowledge structure of basic nutrition concepts and to increase children's critical thinking skills related to nutrition concepts. We collected observational data focused on three domains: (1) student-computer interaction, (2) student-student interaction, and (3) students' thinking and learning skills. Grounded theory methods were used to analyze the data. Specifically, the constant-comparative method was used to develop open coding categories, defined by properties and described by dimensions. The open coding categories were in turn used in axial coding to differentiate students' learning styles. Five styles of student interaction were defined. These included (1) dominant directors (n = 6; 19%), (2) passive actors (n = 5; 16%), (3) action-oriented students (n = 7; 22%), (4) content-oriented students (n = 8; 25%), and (5) problem solvers (n = 5; 16%). The "student style" groups were somewhat gender specific. The dominant directors and passive actors were girls and the action-oriented and content-oriented students were boys. The problem solvers group was mixed gender. Children's responses to computer-based nutrition education are highly variable. Based on the results of this research, nutrition educators may recommend that nutrition CAI programs be implemented in mixed gender groups.

  3. A Case Study of the Introduction of Computer Science in NZ Schools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bell, Tim; Andreae, Peter; Robins, Anthony

    2014-01-01

    For many years computing in New Zealand schools was focused on teaching students how to use computers, and there was little opportunity for students to learn about programming and computer science as formal subjects. In this article we review a series of initiatives that occurred from 2007 to 2009 that led to programming and computer science being…

  4. Using Computers in Undergraduate Economics Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barr, Saul Z.; Harmon, Oscar

    Seven computer assignments for undergraduate economics students that concentrate on building a foundation for programming higher level mathematical calculations are described. The purpose of each assignment, the computer program for it, and the correct answers are provided. "Introduction to Text Editing" acquaints the student with some…

  5. Development of Interactive Computer Programs To Help Students Transfer Basic Skills to College Level Science and Behavioral Science Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mikulecky, Larry

    Interactive computer programs, developed at Indiana University's Learning Skills Center, were designed to model effective strategies for reading biology and psychology textbooks. For each subject area, computer programs and textbook passages were used to instruct and model for students how to identify key concepts, compare and contrast concepts,…

  6. Student Perceptions of the Value of a University Laptop Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Orr, Claudia; Sherony, Bruce; Steinhaus, Carol

    2008-01-01

    In the fall of 2000, when a mandatory laptop program was initiated at a Midwest regional university, a faculty research team began a longitudinal study to determine student perceptions of the value of the program. Value was defined as usefulness of the computer, reasonable price for the computer and the quality of the computer. A survey of 1,000…

  7. A Pilot Study of a Self-Voicing Computer Program for Prealgebra Math Problems

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Beal, Carole R.; Rosenblum, L. Penny; Smith, Derrick W.

    2011-01-01

    Fourteen students with visual impairments in Grades 5-12 participated in the field-testing of AnimalWatch-VI-Beta. This computer program delivered 12 prealgebra math problems and hints through a self-voicing audio feature. The students provided feedback about how the computer program can be improved and expanded to make it accessible to all users.…

  8. Quantity and Quality of Computer Use and Academic Achievement: Evidence from a Large-Scale International Test Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cheema, Jehanzeb R.; Zhang, Bo

    2013-01-01

    This study looked at the effect of both quantity and quality of computer use on achievement. The Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2003 student survey comprising of 4,356 students (boys, n = 2,129; girls, n = 2,227) was used to predict academic achievement from quantity and quality of computer use while controlling for…

  9. The Use of Robotics to Promote Computing to Pre-College Students with Visual Impairments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ludi, Stephanie; Reichlmayr, Tom

    2011-01-01

    This article describes an outreach program to broaden participation in computing to include more students with visual impairments. The precollege workshops target students in grades 7-12 and engage students with robotics programming. The use of robotics at the precollege level has become popular in part due to the availability of Lego Mindstorm…

  10. Logic via Computer Programming.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wieschenberg, Agnes A.

    This paper proposed the question "How do we teach logical thinking and sophisticated mathematics to unsophisticated college students?" One answer among many is through the writing of computer programs. The writing of computer algorithms is mathematical problem solving and logic in disguise and it may attract students who would otherwise stop…

  11. The Role of Physicality in Rich Programming Environments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Liu, Allison S.; Schunn, Christian D.; Flot, Jesse; Shoop, Robin

    2013-01-01

    Computer science proficiency continues to grow in importance, while the number of students entering computer science-related fields declines. Many rich programming environments have been created to motivate student interest and expertise in computer science. In the current study, we investigated whether a recently created environment, Robot…

  12. Computer Series 41: Potential-Energy Surfaces and Transition-State Theory.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moss, S. J.; Coady, C. J.

    1983-01-01

    Describes computer programs involving the London-Eyring-Polany-Sato method (LEPS). The programs provide a valuable means of introducing students to potential energy surfaces and to the foundations of transition state theory. Program listings (with copies of student scripts) or programs on DOS 3.3 disc are available from authors. (JN)

  13. Using Robotics to Improve Retention and Increase Comprehension in Introductory Programming Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pullan, Marie

    2013-01-01

    Several college majors, outside of computer science, require students to learn computer programming. Many students have difficulty getting through the programming sequence and ultimately change majors or drop out of college. To deal with this problem, active learning techniques were developed and implemented in a freshman programming logic and…

  14. Computer-Assisted Instruction to Teach DOS Commands: A Pilot Study.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McWeeney, Mark G.

    1992-01-01

    Describes a computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program used to teach DOS commands. Pretest and posttest results for 65 graduate students using the program are reported, and it is concluded that the CAI program significantly aided the students. Sample screen displays for the program and several questions from the pre/posttest are included. (nine…

  15. Learning sorting algorithms through visualization construction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cetin, Ibrahim; Andrews-Larson, Christine

    2016-01-01

    Recent increased interest in computational thinking poses an important question to researchers: What are the best ways to teach fundamental computing concepts to students? Visualization is suggested as one way of supporting student learning. This mixed-method study aimed to (i) examine the effect of instruction in which students constructed visualizations on students' programming achievement and students' attitudes toward computer programming, and (ii) explore how this kind of instruction supports students' learning according to their self-reported experiences in the course. The study was conducted with 58 pre-service teachers who were enrolled in their second programming class. They expect to teach information technology and computing-related courses at the primary and secondary levels. An embedded experimental model was utilized as a research design. Students in the experimental group were given instruction that required students to construct visualizations related to sorting, whereas students in the control group viewed pre-made visualizations. After the instructional intervention, eight students from each group were selected for semi-structured interviews. The results showed that the intervention based on visualization construction resulted in significantly better acquisition of sorting concepts. However, there was no significant difference between the groups with respect to students' attitudes toward computer programming. Qualitative data analysis indicated that students in the experimental group constructed necessary abstractions through their engagement in visualization construction activities. The authors of this study argue that the students' active engagement in the visualization construction activities explains only one side of students' success. The other side can be explained through the instructional approach, constructionism in this case, used to design instruction. The conclusions and implications of this study can be used by researchers and instructors dealing with computational thinking.

  16. Students' Use of Electronic Support Tools in Mathematics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Crawford, Lindy; Higgins, Kristina N.; Huscroft-D'Angelo, Jacqueline N.; Hall, Lindsay

    2016-01-01

    This study investigated students' use of electronic support tools within a computer-based mathematics program. Electronic support tools are tools, such as hyperlinks or calculators, available within many computer-based instructional programs. A convenience sample of 73 students in grades 4-6 was selected to participate in the study. Students…

  17. Preparing Students for Careers in Science and Industry with Computational Physics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Florinski, V. A.

    2011-12-01

    Funded by NSF CAREER grant, the University of Alabama (UAH) in Huntsville has launched a new graduate program in Computational Physics. It is universally accepted that today's physics is done on a computer. The program blends the boundary between physics and computer science by teaching student modern, practical techniques of solving difficult physics problems using diverse computational platforms. Currently consisting of two courses first offered in the Fall of 2011, the program will eventually include 5 courses covering methods for fluid dynamics, particle transport via stochastic methods, and hybrid and PIC plasma simulations. The UAH's unique location allows courses to be shaped through discussions with faculty, NASA/MSFC researchers and local R&D business representatives, i.e., potential employers of the program's graduates. Students currently participating in the program have all begun their research careers in space and plasma physics; many are presenting their research at this meeting.

  18. A cyber-linked undergraduate research experience in computational biomolecular structure prediction and design

    PubMed Central

    Alford, Rebecca F.; Dolan, Erin L.

    2017-01-01

    Computational biology is an interdisciplinary field, and many computational biology research projects involve distributed teams of scientists. To accomplish their work, these teams must overcome both disciplinary and geographic barriers. Introducing new training paradigms is one way to facilitate research progress in computational biology. Here, we describe a new undergraduate program in biomolecular structure prediction and design in which students conduct research at labs located at geographically-distributed institutions while remaining connected through an online community. This 10-week summer program begins with one week of training on computational biology methods development, transitions to eight weeks of research, and culminates in one week at the Rosetta annual conference. To date, two cohorts of students have participated, tackling research topics including vaccine design, enzyme design, protein-based materials, glycoprotein modeling, crowd-sourced science, RNA processing, hydrogen bond networks, and amyloid formation. Students in the program report outcomes comparable to students who participate in similar in-person programs. These outcomes include the development of a sense of community and increases in their scientific self-efficacy, scientific identity, and science values, all predictors of continuing in a science research career. Furthermore, the program attracted students from diverse backgrounds, which demonstrates the potential of this approach to broaden the participation of young scientists from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in computational biology. PMID:29216185

  19. A cyber-linked undergraduate research experience in computational biomolecular structure prediction and design.

    PubMed

    Alford, Rebecca F; Leaver-Fay, Andrew; Gonzales, Lynda; Dolan, Erin L; Gray, Jeffrey J

    2017-12-01

    Computational biology is an interdisciplinary field, and many computational biology research projects involve distributed teams of scientists. To accomplish their work, these teams must overcome both disciplinary and geographic barriers. Introducing new training paradigms is one way to facilitate research progress in computational biology. Here, we describe a new undergraduate program in biomolecular structure prediction and design in which students conduct research at labs located at geographically-distributed institutions while remaining connected through an online community. This 10-week summer program begins with one week of training on computational biology methods development, transitions to eight weeks of research, and culminates in one week at the Rosetta annual conference. To date, two cohorts of students have participated, tackling research topics including vaccine design, enzyme design, protein-based materials, glycoprotein modeling, crowd-sourced science, RNA processing, hydrogen bond networks, and amyloid formation. Students in the program report outcomes comparable to students who participate in similar in-person programs. These outcomes include the development of a sense of community and increases in their scientific self-efficacy, scientific identity, and science values, all predictors of continuing in a science research career. Furthermore, the program attracted students from diverse backgrounds, which demonstrates the potential of this approach to broaden the participation of young scientists from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in computational biology.

  20. A Framework for Understanding Physics Students' Computational Modeling Practices

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lunk, Brandon Robert

    2012-01-01

    With the growing push to include computational modeling in the physics classroom, we are faced with the need to better understand students' computational modeling practices. While existing research on programming comprehension explores how novices and experts generate programming algorithms, little of this discusses how domain content…

  1. "Mini", "Midi" and the Student.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Edwards, Perry; Broadwell, Bruce

    Mini- and midi-computers have been introduced into the computer science program at Sierra College to afford students more direct contact with computers. The college's administration combined with the Science and Business departments to share the expense and utilization of the program. The National Cash Register Century 100 and the Data General…

  2. Utilizing Computer and Multimedia Technology in Generating Choreography for the Advanced Dance Student at the High School Level.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Griffin, Irma Amado

    This study describes a pilot program utilizing various multimedia computer programs on a MacQuadra 840 AV. The target group consisted of six advanced dance students who participated in the pilot program within the dance curriculum by creating a database of dance movement using video and still photography. The students combined desktop publishing,…

  3. A Computer-aided Learning Exercise in Spectrophotometry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pamula, Frederick

    1994-01-01

    Discusses the use of a computer simulation program in teaching the concepts of spectrophotometry. Introduces several parts of the program and program usage. Presents an assessment activity to evaluate students' mastery of material. Concludes with the advantages of this approach to the student and to the assessor. (ASK)

  4. Does Participation in a Computer-Based Learning Program in Introductory Financial Accounting Course Lead to Choosing Accounting as a Major?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Owhoso, Vincent; Malgwi, Charles A.; Akpomi, Margaret

    2014-01-01

    The authors examine whether students who completed a computer-based intervention program, designed to help them develop abilities and skills in introductory accounting, later declared accounting as a major. A sample of 1,341 students participated in the study, of which 74 completed the intervention program (computer-based assisted learning [CBAL])…

  5. Implementation of a computer database testing and analysis program.

    PubMed

    Rouse, Deborah P

    2007-01-01

    The author is the coordinator of a computer software database testing and analysis program implemented in an associate degree nursing program. Computer software database programs help support the testing development and analysis process. Critical thinking is measurable and promoted with their use. The reader of this article will learn what is involved in procuring and implementing a computer database testing and analysis program in an academic nursing program. The use of the computerized database for testing and analysis will be approached as a method to promote and evaluate the nursing student's critical thinking skills and to prepare the nursing student for the National Council Licensure Examination.

  6. Impact of Automated Software Testing Tools on Reflective Thinking and Student Performance in Introductory Computer Science Programming Classes

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fridge, Evorell; Bagui, Sikha

    2016-01-01

    The goal of this research was to investigate the effects of automated testing software on levels of student reflection and student performance. This was a self-selecting, between subjects design that examined the performance of students in introductory computer programming classes. Participants were given the option of using the Web-CAT…

  7. The Effect of Student-Directed Transition Planning with a Computer-Based Reading Support Program on the Self-Determination of Students with Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lee, Youngsun; Wehmeyer, Michael L.; Palmer, Susan B.; Williams-Diehm, Kendra; Davies, Daniel K.; Stock, Steven E.

    2011-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of student-directed transition planning instruction ("Whose Future Is It Anyway?" curriculum) with a computer-based reading support program ("Rocket Reader") on the self-determination, self-efficacy and outcome expectancy, and transition planning knowledge of students with disabilities. This…

  8. Dyadic Instruction for Middle School Students: Liking Promotes Learning

    PubMed Central

    Hartl, Amy C.; DeLay, Dawn; Laursen, Brett; Denner, Jill; Werner, Linda; Campe, Shannon; Ortiz, Eloy

    2015-01-01

    This study examines whether friendship facilitates or hinders learning in a dyadic instructional setting. Working in 80 same-sex pairs, 160 (60 girls, 100 boys) middle school students (M = 12.13 years old) were taught a new computer programming language and programmed a game. Students spent 14 to 30 (M = 22.7) hours in a programming class. At the beginning and the end of the project, each participant separately completed (a) computer programming knowledge assessments and (b) questionnaires rating their affinity for their partner. Results support the proposition that liking promotes learning: Greater partner affinity predicted greater subsequent increases in computer programming knowledge for both partners. One partner’s initial programming knowledge also positively predicted the other partner’s subsequent partner affinity. PMID:26688658

  9. The Importance of Outreach Programs to Unblock the Pipeline and Broaden Diversity in ICT Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lang, Catherine; Craig, Annemieke; Egan, Mary Anne

    2016-01-01

    There is a need for outreach programs to attract a diverse range of students to the computing discipline. The lack of qualified computing graduates to fill the growing number of computing vacancies is of concern to government and industry and there are few female students entering the computing pipeline at high school level. This paper presents…

  10. Teaching Business Programming Using Games: A Critical Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Muganda, Nixon; Joubert, Pieter, Jr.; Toit, Jacques Du; Johnson, Roy

    2012-01-01

    Introduction: This paper examines the persistent problematic issue of engaging business students in teaching computer programming. Studies continue to document challenges in teaching computer programming and various methods have been proposed with varying degrees of success. From an educator's perspective, the concern is how to engage students to…

  11. Quantitative Model for Choosing Programming Language for Online Instruction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sherman, Steven J.; Shehane, Ronald F.; Todd, Dewey W.

    2018-01-01

    Colleges are increasingly offering online courses, including computer programming courses for business school students. Programming languages that are most useful to students are those that are widely used in the job market. However, the most popular computer languages change at least every three years. Therefore, the language used for instruction…

  12. Computational thinking in life science education.

    PubMed

    Rubinstein, Amir; Chor, Benny

    2014-11-01

    We join the increasing call to take computational education of life science students a step further, beyond teaching mere programming and employing existing software tools. We describe a new course, focusing on enriching the curriculum of life science students with abstract, algorithmic, and logical thinking, and exposing them to the computational "culture." The design, structure, and content of our course are influenced by recent efforts in this area, collaborations with life scientists, and our own instructional experience. Specifically, we suggest that an effective course of this nature should: (1) devote time to explicitly reflect upon computational thinking processes, resisting the temptation to drift to purely practical instruction, (2) focus on discrete notions, rather than on continuous ones, and (3) have basic programming as a prerequisite, so students need not be preoccupied with elementary programming issues. We strongly recommend that the mere use of existing bioinformatics tools and packages should not replace hands-on programming. Yet, we suggest that programming will mostly serve as a means to practice computational thinking processes. This paper deals with the challenges and considerations of such computational education for life science students. It also describes a concrete implementation of the course and encourages its use by others.

  13. Computer Programming with Early Elementary Students with Down Syndrome

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Matthew S.; Vasquez, Eleazar; Donehower, Claire

    2017-01-01

    Students of all ages and abilities must be given the opportunity to learn academic skills that can shape future opportunities and careers. Researchers in the mid-1970s and 1980s began teaching young students the processes of computer programming using basic coding skills and limited technology. As technology became more personalized and easily…

  14. Enhancing Student Writing and Computer Programming with LATEX and MATLAB in Multivariable Calculus

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sullivan, Eric; Melvin, Timothy

    2016-01-01

    Written communication and computer programming are foundational components of an undergraduate degree in the mathematical sciences. All lower-division mathematics courses at our institution are paired with computer-based writing, coding, and problem-solving activities. In multivariable calculus we utilize MATLAB and LATEX to have students explore…

  15. The Computer as a Research and Teaching Instrument for Students in the Behavioral Sciences.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rowland, David L.; Crisler, Larry J.

    A program designed to provide students a background in computers and computing that was implemented by the Department of Behavioral Sciences at Millikin University, Illinois, is described. The program was implemented in three overlapping stages: faculty preparation; course preparation; and course implementation. The development of faculty…

  16. Making Water Pollution a Problem in the Classroom Through Computer Assisted Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Flowers, John D.

    Alternative means for dealing with water pollution control are presented for students and teachers. One computer oriented program is described in terms of teaching wastewater treatment and pollution concepts to middle and secondary school students. Suggestions are given to help teachers use a computer simulation program in their classrooms.…

  17. Computer Communications and Operations--Intermediate, Data Processing Technology: 8025.21.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dade County Public Schools, Miami, FL.

    The following course outline is a guide which presents students with the basic programing and operation concepts for developing the skills necessary to become proficient in the area of computer communications and operation. The student must have met the objectives of Introduction to Computer Programming prior to enrollment in this course. The…

  18. Factors that Influence the Success of Male and Female Computer Programming Students in College

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Clinkenbeard, Drew A.

    As the demand for a technologically skilled work force grows, experience and skill in computer science have become increasingly valuable for college students. However, the number of students graduating with computer science degrees is not growing proportional to this need. Traditionally several groups are underrepresented in this field, notably women and students of color. This study investigated elements of computer science education that influence academic achievement in beginning computer programming courses. The goal of the study was to identify elements that increase success in computer programming courses. A 38-item questionnaire was developed and administered during the Spring 2016 semester at California State University Fullerton (CSUF). CSUF is an urban public university comprised of about 40,000 students. Data were collected from three beginning programming classes offered at CSUF. In total 411 questionnaires were collected resulting in a response rate of 58.63%. Data for the study were grouped into three broad categories of variables. These included academic and background variables; affective variables; and peer, mentor, and role-model variables. A conceptual model was developed to investigate how these variables might predict final course grade. Data were analyzed using statistical techniques such as linear regression, factor analysis, and path analysis. Ultimately this study found that peer interactions, comfort with computers, computer self-efficacy, self-concept, and perception of achievement were the best predictors of final course grade. In addition, the analyses showed that male students exhibited higher levels of computer self-efficacy and self-concept compared to female students, even when they achieved comparable course grades. Implications and explanations of these findings are explored, and potential policy changes are offered.

  19. Computer Literacy Project. A General Orientation in Basic Computer Concepts and Applications.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Murray, David R.

    This paper proposes a two-part, basic computer literacy program for university faculty, staff, and students with no prior exposure to computers. The program described would introduce basic computer concepts and computing center service programs and resources; provide fundamental preparation for other computer courses; and orient faculty towards…

  20. Effects of a Structured Resource-Based Web Issue-Quest Approach on Students' Learning Performances in Computer Programming Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hsu, Ting-Chia; Hwang, Gwo-Jen

    2017-01-01

    Programming concepts are important and challenging to novices who are beginning to study computer programming skills. In addition to the textbook content, students usually learn the concepts of programming from the web; however, it could be difficult for novice learners to effectively derive helpful information from such non-structured open…

  1. Scientific Computing for Chemists: An Undergraduate Course in Simulations, Data Processing, and Visualization

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Weiss, Charles J.

    2017-01-01

    The Scientific Computing for Chemists course taught at Wabash College teaches chemistry students to use the Python programming language, Jupyter notebooks, and a number of common Python scientific libraries to process, analyze, and visualize data. Assuming no prior programming experience, the course introduces students to basic programming and…

  2. Computers-for-edu: An Advanced Business Application Programming (ABAP) Teaching Case

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boyle, Todd A.

    2007-01-01

    The "Computers-for-edu" case is designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to creating Advanced Business Application Programming (ABAP) reports and dialogue programs, as well as navigating various mySAP Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) transactions needed by ABAP developers. The case requires students to apply a wide variety…

  3. Pair Programming and LSs in Computing Education: Its Impact on Students' Performances

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hui, Tie Hui; Umar, Irfan Naufal

    2011-01-01

    Learning to programme requires complex cognitive skills that computing students find it arduous in comprehension. PP (pair programming) is an intensive style of programme cooperation where two people working together in resolving programming scenarios. It begins to draw the interests of educators as a teaching approach to facilitate learning and…

  4. Easy-to-Implement Project Integrates Basic Electronics and Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Johnson, Richard; Shackelford, Ray

    2008-01-01

    The activities described in this article give students excellent experience with both computer programming and basic electronics. During the activities, students will work in small groups, using a BASIC Stamp development board to fabricate digital circuits and PBASIC to write program code that will control the circuits they have built. The…

  5. How Do Students Evaluate Computer Use for Learning?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lu, Jiamei; Li, Daqi; Stevens, Carla; Ye, Renmin

    2016-01-01

    Using Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2012, an international education database, this study analyzed the evaluations of computer use for academic learning by 15-year-old students from seven Edu-systems (unit in PISA) in Eastern Asia. Six variables were identified in association with students' evaluations of computer use…

  6. INSPIRED High School Computing Academies

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Doerschuk, Peggy; Liu, Jiangjiang; Mann, Judith

    2011-01-01

    If we are to attract more women and minorities to computing we must engage students at an early age. As part of its mission to increase participation of women and underrepresented minorities in computing, the Increasing Student Participation in Research Development Program (INSPIRED) conducts computing academies for high school students. The…

  7. Adolescents' Chunking of Computer Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Magliaro, Susan; Burton, John K.

    To investigate what children learn during computer programming instruction, students attending a summer computer camp were asked to recall either single lines or chunks of computer programs from either coherent or scrambled programs. The 16 subjects, ages 12 to 17, were divided into three instructional groups: (1) beginners, who were taught to…

  8. Advanced Certification Program for Computer Graphic Specialists. Final Performance Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Parkland Coll., Champaign, IL.

    A pioneer program in computer graphics was implemented at Parkland College (Illinois) to meet the demand for specialized technicians to visualize data generated on high performance computers. In summer 1989, 23 students were accepted into the pilot program. Courses included C programming, calculus and analytic geometry, computer graphics, and…

  9. Computer Architects.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Betts, Janelle Lyon

    2001-01-01

    Describes a high school art assignment in which students utilize Appleworks or Claris Works to design their own house, after learning about architectural styles and how to use the computer program. States that the project develops student computer skills and increases student knowledge about architecture. (CMK)

  10. The Effects of Self-Explanation and Reading Questions and Answers on Learning Computer Programming Language

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lee, Nancy

    2013-01-01

    The current study explored the differential effects of two learning strategies, self-explanation and reading questions and answers, on students' test performance in the computer programming language JavaScript. Students' perceptions toward the two strategies as to their effectiveness in learning JavaScript was also explored by examining students'…

  11. Analyses of Receptive and Productive Korean EFL Vocabulary: Computer-Based Vocabulary Learning Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kim, Scott Sungki

    2013-01-01

    The present research study investigated the effects of 8 versions of a computer-based vocabulary learning program on receptive and productive knowledge levels of college students. The participants were 106 male and 103 female Korean EFL students from Kyungsung University and Kwandong University in Korea. Students who participated in versions of…

  12. Computer Literacy for Student Teachers and Elementary Children through Programming.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Elliott, John D.

    This paper argues that teachers and students should be creators as well as consumers of computer software, not only so that they might better appreciate the skills involved, but also to improve teacher effectiveness in the classroom. As part of their own class work, 13 second-year student teachers developed a branching program using simple basic…

  13. A Digital Simulation Program for Health Science Students to Follow Drug Levels in the Body

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stavchansky, Salomon; And Others

    1977-01-01

    The Rayetheon Scientific Simulation Language (RSSL) program, an easily-used simulation on the CDC/6600 computer at the University of Texas at Austin, offers a simple method of solving differential equations on a digital computer. It is used by undergraduate biopharmaceutics-pharmacokinetics students and graduate students in all areas. (Author/LBH)

  14. Task-Based Assessment of Students' Computational Thinking Skills Developed through Visual Programming or Tangible Coding Environments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Djambong, Takam; Freiman, Viktor

    2016-01-01

    While today's schools in several countries, like Canada, are about to bring back programming to their curricula, a new conceptual angle, namely one of computational thinking, draws attention of researchers. In order to understand the articulation between computational thinking tasks in one side, student's targeted skills, and the types of problems…

  15. Developing Understanding of Image Formation by Lenses through Collaborative Learning Mediated by Multimedia Computer-Assisted Learning Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tao, Ping-Kee

    2004-01-01

    This article reports the use of a computer-based collaborative learning instruction designed to help students develop understanding of image formation by lenses. The study aims to investigate how students, working in dyads and mediated by multimedia computer-assisted learning (CAL) programs, construct shared knowledge and understanding. The…

  16. Computer Literacy and Online Learning Attitude toward GSOE Students in Distance Education Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Li, Lung-Yu; Lee, Long-Yuan

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to explore graduate students' competencies in computer use and their attitudes toward online learning in asynchronous online courses of distance learning programs in a Graduate School of Education (GSOE) in Taiwan. The research examined the relationship between computer literacy and the online learning attitudes of…

  17. Teaching Grocery Store Purchasing Skills to Students with Intellectual Disabilities Using a Computer-Based Instruction Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hansen, David L.; Morgan, Robert L.

    2008-01-01

    This research evaluated effects of a multi-media computer-based instruction (CBI) program designed to teach grocery store purchasing skills to three high-school students with intellectual disabilities. A multiple baseline design across participants used measures of computer performance mastery and grocery store probes to evaluate the CBI. All…

  18. Computers in the Classroom: Teacher's Resource Manual for Algebra.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Koetke, Walter

    Demonstration programs, possible assignments for students (with solutions), and remedial drill programs for students to use are presented to aid teachers using a computer or a computer terminal in the teaching of algebra. The text can be followed page by page or used as a well-indexed reference work, and specific suggestions are made on how and…

  19. Nature-Computer Camp 1991. Chapter 2 Program Evaluation Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    District of Columbia Public Schools, Washington, DC. Dept. of Research and Evaluation.

    The District of Columbia Public Schools Nature Computer Camp (NCC) is an environmental/computer program which has been operating in the Catoctin Mountain Park (Maryland) since 1983. The camp operates for five one-week sessions serving a total of 406 regular sixth-grade students representing 84 elementary schools with an average of 81 students per…

  20. Student and Teacher Success: The Impact of Computers in Primary Grades.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Drexler, Nancy Gadzuk; And Others

    This paper discusses the impact of computers on student learning as reported by teachers participating in a study of a computer-based language arts instructional program for the early elementary grades--the Apple Learning Series: Early Language (ALS-EL). Although they found the program difficult to evaluate, some teachers stated that the ALS-EL…

  1. An Investigation of the Effectiveness of Computer Simulation Programs as Tutorial Tools for Teaching Population Ecology at University.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korfiatis, K.; Papatheodorou, E.; Paraskevopoulous, S.; Stamou, G. P.

    1999-01-01

    Describes a study of the effectiveness of computer-simulation programs in enhancing biology students' familiarity with ecological modeling and concepts. Finds that computer simulations improved student comprehension of ecological processes expressed in mathematical form, but did not allow a full understanding of ecological concepts. Contains 28…

  2. Applications of Out-of-Domain Knowledge in Students' Reasoning about Computer Program State

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lewis, Colleen Marie

    2012-01-01

    To meet a growing demand and a projected deficit in the supply of computer professionals (NCWIT, 2009), it is of vital importance to expand students' access to computer science. However, many researchers in the computer science education community unproductively assume that some students lack an innate ability for computer science and…

  3. Use of notebook computers for third-year surgical students.

    PubMed

    Prystowsky, J B; Hassan, M B; Nahrwold, D L

    1996-08-01

    Computer-aided instruction has become increasingly popular in medical education. Notebook computers (NCs) are attractive, convenient microcomputers. We hypothesized that use of NCs by third-year surgical students would enhance their performance of educational activities. During the 1994-1995 academic year 25 student volunteers used NCs during the surgery clerkship. NC software included questions for self-examination, anatomy self-instruction program, word processing and electronic mail (e-mail) for recording and sending history and physicals (H & Ps) to faculty for review, and MEDLINE search software. Identical software was available to all students at on-campus computer centers. All students were asked to record the number of hours that they used the self-examination and anatomy programs, number of H & Ps performed and reviewed by faculty, and number of literature searches performed. NC users were interviewed regarding the value of NC use and their rating of software programs. NC users (n = 25) used the self-examination and anatomy programs more often, performed more literature searches, and had a greater percentage of their H & Ps reviewed by faculty compared with non-NC users (n = 143) (p < 0.05 for all outcomes). Most NC users agreed that NC use was enjoyable and valuable, and they believed that all students should have NCs during the surgery clerkship. Students rated software in order of preference: e-mail > self-examination > MEDLINE search > anatomy program. NC use enhanced performance of educational activities in the surgery clerkship. Effort toward developing educational software for surgical students is warranted because students are likely to use such programs.

  4. Development and Validation of Scores on a Computer Programming Self-Efficacy Scale and Group Analyses of Novice Programmer Self-Efficacy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ramalingam, Vennila; Wiedenbeck, Susan

    1998-01-01

    A 32-item self-efficacy scale for computer programming was developed, primed to the C++ programming language. The scale was administered to 421 students at the beginning and end of an introductory course in C++ programming. There was growth in self-efficacy between two administrations of the scale 12 weeks apart, particularly for students who…

  5. Development of a Computer-Assisted Instrumentation Curriculum for Physics Students: Using LabVIEW and Arduino Platform

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuan, Wen-Hsuan; Tseng, Chi-Hung; Chen, Sufen; Wong, Ching-Chang

    2016-06-01

    We propose an integrated curriculum to establish essential abilities of computer programming for the freshmen of a physics department. The implementation of the graphical-based interfaces from Scratch to LabVIEW then to LabVIEW for Arduino in the curriculum `Computer-Assisted Instrumentation in the Design of Physics Laboratories' brings rigorous algorithm and syntax protocols together with imagination, communication, scientific applications and experimental innovation. The effectiveness of the curriculum was evaluated via statistical analysis of questionnaires, interview responses, the increase in student numbers majoring in physics, and performance in a competition. The results provide quantitative support that the curriculum remove huge barriers to programming which occur in text-based environments, helped students gain knowledge of programming and instrumentation, and increased the students' confidence and motivation to learn physics and computer languages.

  6. The Compubus Evaluation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Klimko, Ivan P.

    The Computer Bus Program (Compubus Program) of the Modesto City Schools (California) was evaluated to determine the effectiveness of the computer literacy program for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students at eight elementary compensatory education schools. The program provided instruction on computer vocabulary, knowledge, and applications in a…

  7. Image Processing Algorithms in the Secondary School Programming Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gerják, István

    2017-01-01

    Learning computer programming for students of the age of 14-18 is difficult and requires endurance and engagement. Being familiar with the syntax of a computer language and writing programs in it are challenges for youngsters, not to mention that understanding algorithms is also a big challenge. To help students in the learning process, teachers…

  8. Student Perceptions of Instructional Tools in Programming Logic: A Comparison of Traditional versus Alice Teaching Environments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schultz, Leah

    2011-01-01

    This research investigates the implementation of the programming language Alice to teach computer programming logic to computer information systems students. Alice has been implemented in other university settings and has been reported to have many benefits including object-oriented concepts and an engaging and fun learning environment. In this…

  9. Sets, Probability and Statistics: The Mathematics of Life Insurance. [Computer Program.] Second Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    King, James M.; And Others

    The materials described here represent the conversion of a highly popular student workbook "Sets, Probability and Statistics: The Mathematics of Life Insurance" into a computer program. The program is designed to familiarize students with the concepts of sets, probability, and statistics, and to provide practice using real life examples. It also…

  10. Empowering K-12 Students with Disabilities to Learn Computational Thinking and Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Israel, Maya; Wherfel, Quentin M.; Pearson, Jamie; Shehab, Saadeddine; Tapia, Tanya

    2015-01-01

    This article's focus is on including computing and computational thinking in K-12 instruction within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, and to provide that instruction in ways that promote access for students traditionally underrepresented in the STEM fields, such as students with disabilities. Providing computing…

  11. A Framework for Understanding Physics Students' Computational Modeling Practices

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lunk, Brandon Robert

    With the growing push to include computational modeling in the physics classroom, we are faced with the need to better understand students' computational modeling practices. While existing research on programming comprehension explores how novices and experts generate programming algorithms, little of this discusses how domain content knowledge, and physics knowledge in particular, can influence students' programming practices. In an effort to better understand this issue, I have developed a framework for modeling these practices based on a resource stance towards student knowledge. A resource framework models knowledge as the activation of vast networks of elements called "resources." Much like neurons in the brain, resources that become active can trigger cascading events of activation throughout the broader network. This model emphasizes the connectivity between knowledge elements and provides a description of students' knowledge base. Together with resources resources, the concepts of "epistemic games" and "frames" provide a means for addressing the interaction between content knowledge and practices. Although this framework has generally been limited to describing conceptual and mathematical understanding, it also provides a means for addressing students' programming practices. In this dissertation, I will demonstrate this facet of a resource framework as well as fill in an important missing piece: a set of epistemic games that can describe students' computational modeling strategies. The development of this theoretical framework emerged from the analysis of video data of students generating computational models during the laboratory component of a Matter & Interactions: Modern Mechanics course. Student participants across two semesters were recorded as they worked in groups to fix pre-written computational models that were initially missing key lines of code. Analysis of this video data showed that the students' programming practices were highly influenced by their existing physics content knowledge, particularly their knowledge of analytic procedures. While this existing knowledge was often applied in inappropriate circumstances, the students were still able to display a considerable amount of understanding of the physics content and of analytic solution procedures. These observations could not be adequately accommodated by the existing literature of programming comprehension. In extending the resource framework to the task of computational modeling, I model students' practices in terms of three important elements. First, a knowledge base includes re- sources for understanding physics, math, and programming structures. Second, a mechanism for monitoring and control describes students' expectations as being directed towards numerical, analytic, qualitative or rote solution approaches and which can be influenced by the problem representation. Third, a set of solution approaches---many of which were identified in this study---describe what aspects of the knowledge base students use and how they use that knowledge to enact their expectations. This framework allows us as researchers to track student discussions and pinpoint the source of difficulties. This work opens up many avenues of potential research. First, this framework gives researchers a vocabulary for extending Resource Theory to other domains of instruction, such as modeling how physics students use graphs. Second, this framework can be used as the basis for modeling expert physicists' programming practices. Important instructional implications also follow from this research. Namely, as we broaden the use of computational modeling in the physics classroom, our instructional practices should focus on helping students understand the step-by-step nature of programming in contrast to the already salient analytic procedures.

  12. Computer-assisted instruction to prevent early reading difficulties in students at risk for dyslexia: Outcomes from two instructional approaches.

    PubMed

    Torgesen, Joseph K; Wagner, Richard K; Rashotte, Carol A; Herron, Jeannine; Lindamood, Patricia

    2010-06-01

    The relative effectiveness of two computer-assisted instructional programs designed to provide instruction and practice in foundational reading skills was examined. First-grade students at risk for reading disabilities received approximately 80 h of small-group instruction in four 50-min sessions per week from October through May. Approximately half of the instruction was delivered by specially trained teachers to prepare students for their work on the computer, and half was delivered by the computer programs. At the end of first grade, there were no differences in student reading performance between students assigned to the different intervention conditions, but the combined-intervention students performed significantly better than control students who had been exposed to their school's normal reading program. Significant differences were obtained for phonemic awareness, phonemic decoding, reading accuracy, rapid automatic naming, and reading comprehension. A follow-up test at the end of second grade showed a similar pattern of differences, although only differences in phonemic awareness, phonemic decoding, and rapid naming remained statistically reliable.

  13. Introduction to the Atari Computer. A Program Written in the Pilot Programming Language.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schlenker, Richard M.

    Designed to be an introduction to the Atari microcomputers for beginners, the interactive computer program listed in this document is written in the Pilot programing language. Instructions are given for entering and storing the program in the computer memory for use by students. (MES)

  14. Blended Learning Experience in a Programming Language Course and the Effect of the Thinking Styles of the Students on Success and Motivation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yagci, Mustafa

    2016-01-01

    High-level thinking and problem solving skill is one requirement of computer programming that most of the students experience problems with. Individual differences such as motivation, attitude towards programming, thinking style of the student, and complexity of the programming language have influence on students' success on programming. Thus,…

  15. Advanced LabVIEW Labs

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jones, Eric D.

    1999-06-17

    In the world of computer-based data acquisition and control, the graphical interface program LabVIEW from National Instruments is so ubiquitous that in many ways it has almost become the laboratory standard. To date, there have been approximately fifteen books concerning LabVIEW, but Professor Essick's treatise takes on a completely different tack than all of the previous discussions. In the more standard treatments of the ways and wherefores of LabVIEW such as LabVIEW Graphical Programming: Practical Applications in Instrumentation and Control by Gary W. Johnson (McGraw Hill, NY 1997), the emphasis has been instructing the reader how to program LabVIEW tomore » create a Virtual Instrument (VI) on the computer for interfacing to a particular instruments. LabVIEW is written in G a graphical programming language developed by National Instruments. In the past the emphasis has been on training the experimenter to learn G . Without going into details here, G incorporates the usual loops, arithmetic expressions, etc., found in many programming languages, but in an icon (graphical) environment. The net result being that LabVIEW contains all of the standard methods needed for interfacing to instruments, data acquisition, data analysis, graphics, and also methodology to incorporate programs written in other languages into LabVIEW. Historically, according to Professor Essick, he developed a series of experiments for an upper division laboratory course for computer-based instrumentation. His observation was that while many students had the necessary background in computer programming languages, there were students who had virtually no concept about writing a computer program let alone a computer- based interfacing program. Thus the beginnings of a concept for not only teaching computer- based instrumentation techniques, but aiso a method for the beginner to experience writing a com- puter program. Professor Essick saw LabVIEW as the perfect environment in which to teach computer-based research skills. With this goal in mind, he has succeeded admirably. Advanced LabVIEW Labs presents a series of chapters devoted to not only introducing the reader to LabVIEW, but also to the concepts necessary for writing a successful computer pro- gram. Each chapter is an assignment for the student and is suitable for a ten week course. The first topic introduces the while loop and waveform chart VI'S. After learning how to launch LabVIEW, the student then leans how to use LabVIEW functions such as sine and cosine. The beauty of thk and subsequent chapters, the student is introduced immediately to computer-based instruction by learning how to display the results in graph form on the screen. At each point along the way, the student is not only introduced to another LabVIEW operation, but also to such subjects as spread sheets for data storage, numerical integration, Fourier transformations', curve fitting algorithms, etc. The last few chapters conclude with the purpose of the learning module, and that is, com- puter-based instrumentation. Computer-based laboratory projects such as analog-to-digital con- version, digitizing oscilloscopes treated. Advanced Lab VIEW Labs finishes with a treatment on GPIB interfacing and finally, the student is asked to create an operating VI for temperature con- trol. This is an excellent text, not only as an treatise on LabVIEW but also as an introduction to computer programming logic. All programmers, who are struggling to not only learning how interface computers to instruments, but also trying understand top down programming and other programming language techniques, should add Advanced Lab-VIEW Labs to their computer library.« less

  16. Advanced LabVIEW Labs

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jones, Eric D.

    1999-06-17

    In the world of computer-based data acquisition and control, the graphical interface program LabVIEW from National Instruments is so ubiquitous that in many ways it has almost become the laboratory standard. To date, there have been approximately fifteen books concerning LabVIEW, but Professor Essick's treatise takes on a completely different tack than all of the previous discussions. In the more standard treatments of the ways and wherefores of LabVIEW such as LabVIEW Graphical Programming: Practical Applications in Instrumentation and Control by Gary W. Johnson (McGraw Hill, NY 1997), the emphasis has been instructing the reader how to program LabVIEW tomore » create a Virtual Instrument (VI) on the computer for interfacing to a particular instruments. LabVIEW is written in "G" a graphical programming language developed by National Instruments. In the past the emphasis has been on training the experimenter to learn "G". Without going into details here, "G" incorporates the usual loops, arithmetic expressions, etc., found in many programming languages, but in an icon (graphical) environment. The net result being that LabVIEW contains all of the standard methods needed for interfacing to instruments, data acquisition, data analysis, graphics, and also methodology to incorporate programs written in other languages into LabVIEW. Historically, according to Professor Essick, he developed a series of experiments for an upper division laboratory course for computer-based instrumentation. His observation was that while many students had the necessary background in computer programming languages, there were students who had virtually no concept about writing a computer program let alone a computer- based interfacing program. Thus the beginnings of a concept for not only teaching computer- based instrumentation techniques, but aiso a method for the beginner to experience writing a com- puter program. Professor Essick saw LabVIEW as the "perfect environment in which to teach computer-based research skills." With this goal in mind, he has succeeded admirably. Advanced LabVIEW Labs presents a series of chapters devoted to not only introducing the reader to LabVIEW, but also to the concepts necessary for writing a successful computer pro- gram. Each chapter is an assignment for the student and is suitable for a ten week course. The first topic introduces the while loop and waveform chart VI'S. After learning how to launch LabVIEW, the student then leans how to use LabVIEW functions such as sine and cosine. The beauty of thk and subsequent chapters, the student is introduced immediately to computer-based instruction by learning how to display the results in graph form on the screen. At each point along the way, the student is not only introduced to another LabVIEW operation, but also to such subjects as spread sheets for data storage, numerical integration, Fourier transformations', curve fitting algorithms, etc. The last few chapters conclude with the purpose of the learning module, and that is, com- puter-based instrumentation. Computer-based laboratory projects such as analog-to-digital con- version, digitizing oscilloscopes treated. Advanced Lab VIEW Labs finishes with a treatment on GPIB interfacing and finally, the student is asked to create an operating VI for temperature con- trol. This is an excellent text, not only as an treatise on LabVIEW but also as an introduction to computer programming logic. All programmers, who are struggling to not only learning how interface computers to instruments, but also trying understand top down programming and other programming language techniques, should add Advanced Lab-VIEW Labs to their computer library.« less

  17. Computer programming in the UK undergraduate mathematics curriculum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sangwin, Christopher J.; O'Toole, Claire

    2017-11-01

    This paper reports a study which investigated the extent to which undergraduate mathematics students in the United Kingdom are currently taught to programme a computer as a core part of their mathematics degree programme. We undertook an online survey, with significant follow-up correspondence, to gather data on current curricula and received replies from 46 (63%) of the departments who teach a BSc mathematics degree. We found that 78% of BSc degree courses in mathematics included computer programming in a compulsory module but 11% of mathematics degree programmes do not teach programming to all their undergraduate mathematics students. In 2016, programming is most commonly taught to undergraduate mathematics students through imperative languages, notably MATLAB, using numerical analysis as the underlying (or parallel) mathematical subject matter. Statistics is a very popular choice in optional courses, using the package R. Computer algebra systems appear to be significantly less popular for compulsory first-year courses than a decade ago, and there was no mention of logic programming, functional programming or automatic theorem proving software. The modal form of assessment of computing modules is entirely by coursework (i.e. no examination).

  18. Teaching Money Computation Skills to High School Students with Mild Intellectual Disabilities via the TouchMath[C] Program: A Multi-Sensory Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Waters, Hugh E.; Boon, Richard T.

    2011-01-01

    This study investigated the effects of the TouchMath[C] program (Bullock, Pierce,&McClellan, 1989) to teach students with mild intellectual disabilities to subtract 3-digit money computational problems with regrouping. Three students with mild intellectual disabilities in high school received instruction in a special education mathematics…

  19. The Global Energy Situation on Earth, Student Guide. Computer Technology Program Environmental Education Units.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Northwest Regional Educational Lab., Portland, OR.

    This is the student guide in a set of five computer-oriented environmental/energy education units. Contents of this guide are: (1) Introduction to the unit; (2) The "EARTH" program; (3) Exercises; and (4) Sources of information on the energy crisis. This guide supplements a simulation which allows students to analyze different aspects of…

  20. The Effects of Computer Programming on High School Students' Reasoning Skills and Mathematical Self-Efficacy and Problem Solving

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Psycharis, Sarantos; Kallia, Maria

    2017-01-01

    In this paper we investigate whether computer programming has an impact on high school student's reasoning skills, problem solving and self-efficacy in Mathematics. The quasi-experimental design was adopted to implement the study. The sample of the research comprised 66 high school students separated into two groups, the experimental and the…

  1. The Effects of Mind Mapping with Cooperative Learning on Programming Performance, Problem Solving Skill and Metacognitive Knowledge among Computer Science Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ismail, Mohd Nasir; Ngah, Nor Azilah; Umar, Irfan Naufal

    2010-01-01

    The purpose of the study is to investigate the effects of mind mapping with cooperative learning (MMCL) and cooperative learning (CL) on: (a) programming performance; (b) problem solving skill; and (c) metacognitive knowledge among computer science students in Malaysia. The moderating variable is the students' logical thinking level with two…

  2. The Role of Gender in Students' Ratings of Teaching Quality in Computer Science and Environmental Engineering

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Price, Linda; Svensson, Ingrid; Borell, Jonas; Richardson, John T. E.

    2017-01-01

    Students' ratings of teaching quality on course units in a computer science program and an environmental engineering program at a large Swedish university were obtained using the Course Experience Questionnaire; 8888 sets of ratings were obtained from men and 4280 sets were obtained from women over ten academic years. These student ratings from…

  3. Advanced CNC and CAM Series. Educational Resources for the Machine Tool Industry. Course Syllabi, Instructor's Handbook [and] Student Laboratory Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Texas State Technical Coll. System, Waco.

    This package consists of course syllabi, an instructor's handbook, and student laboratory manual for a 1-year vocational training program to prepare students for entry-level positions as advanced computer numerical control (CNC) and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM) technicians.. The program was developed through a modification of the DACUM…

  4. Data Processing: Fifteen Suggestions for Computer Training in Your Business Education Classes.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barr, Lowell L.

    1980-01-01

    Presents 15 suggestions for training business education students in the use of computers. Suggestions involve computer language, method of presentation, laboratory time, programing assignments, instructions and handouts, problem solving, deadlines, reviews, programming concepts, programming logic, documentation, and defensive programming. (CT)

  5. A phenomenographic study of the ways of understanding conditional and repetition structures in computer programming languages

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bucks, Gregory Warren

    Computers have become an integral part of how engineers complete their work, allowing them to collect and analyze data, model potential solutions and aiding in production through automation and robotics. In addition, computers are essential elements of the products themselves, from tennis shoes to construction materials. An understanding of how computers function, both at the hardware and software level, is essential for the next generation of engineers. Despite the need for engineers to develop a strong background in computing, little opportunity is given for engineering students to develop these skills. Learning to program is widely seen as a difficult task, requiring students to develop not only an understanding of specific concepts, but also a way of thinking. In addition, students are forced to learn a new tool, in the form of the programming environment employed, along with these concepts and thought processes. Because of this, many students will not develop a sufficient proficiency in programming, even after progressing through the traditional introductory programming sequence. This is a significant problem, especially in the engineering disciplines, where very few students receive more than one or two semesters' worth of instruction in an already crowded engineering curriculum. To address these issues, new pedagogical techniques must be investigated in an effort to enhance the ability of engineering students to develop strong computing skills. However, these efforts are hindered by the lack of published assessment instruments available for probing an individual's understanding of programming concepts across programming languages. Traditionally, programming knowledge has been assessed by producing written code in a specific language. This can be an effective method, but does not lend itself well to comparing the pedagogical impact of different programming environments, languages or paradigms. This dissertation presents a phenomenographic research study exploring the different ways of understanding held by individuals of two programming concepts: conditional structures and repetition structures. This work lays the foundation for the development of language independent assessment instruments, which can ultimately be used to assess the pedagogical implications of various programming environments.

  6. A Computer Based Training Program for the Development of Student Handouts and Other Training Aids.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Paquin, David C.

    A computer-based training program was used to teach technical instructors at the Long Island Lighting Company how to create student handouts of textbook quality with a computer, software, and laser printer. All five learners successfully completed the course objective, which was to produce a one-page handout that contained text and graphics,…

  7. Predicting Computer Science Ph.D. Completion: A Case Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cox, G. W.; Hughes, W. E., Jr.; Etzkorn, L. H.; Weisskopf, M. E.

    2009-01-01

    This paper presents the results of an analysis of indicators that can be used to predict whether a student will succeed in a Computer Science Ph.D. program. The analysis was conducted by studying the records of 75 students who have been in the Computer Science Ph.D. program of the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Seventy-seven variables were…

  8. Wusor II: A Computer Aided Instruction Program with Student Modelling Capabilities. AI Memo 417.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carr, Brian

    Wusor II is the second intelligent computer aided instruction (ICAI) program that has been developed to monitor the progress of, and offer suggestions to, students playing Wumpus, a computer game designed to teach logical thinking and problem solving. From the earlier efforts with Wusor I, it was possible to produce a rule-based expert which…

  9. Integration of Major Computer Program Packages into Experimental Courses: A Freshman Experience.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lipschitz, Irving

    1981-01-01

    Describes the use of the Gaussian 70 computer programs to carry out quantum chemical calculations, including single calculations, geometry, optimization, and potential surface scans. Includes a summary of student activities and benefits for students in an honors freshman chemistry course. (SK)

  10. Becoming Responsible Learners: Community Matters

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wiersema, Janice A.; Licklider, Barbara L.; Ebbers, Larry

    2013-01-01

    Students at Iowa State University had the opportunity to enroll in a two-year National Science Foundation (NFS) Scholarship for Service (SFS) leadership development program, in addition to their work within their majors. This interdisciplinary program included faculty and students in computer engineering, computer science, mathematics, political…

  11. The role of physicality in rich programming environments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Allison S.; Schunn, Christian D.; Flot, Jesse; Shoop, Robin

    2013-12-01

    Computer science proficiency continues to grow in importance, while the number of students entering computer science-related fields declines. Many rich programming environments have been created to motivate student interest and expertise in computer science. In the current study, we investigated whether a recently created environment, Robot Virtual Worlds (RVWs), can be used to teach computer science principles within a robotics context by examining its use in high-school classrooms. We also investigated whether the lack of physicality in these environments impacts student learning by comparing classrooms that used either virtual or physical robots for the RVW curriculum. Results suggest that the RVW environment leads to significant gains in computer science knowledge, that virtual robots lead to faster learning, and that physical robots may have some influence on algorithmic thinking. We discuss the implications of physicality in these programming environments for learning computer science.

  12. Introduction to computers: Reference guide

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ligon, F.V.

    1995-04-01

    The ``Introduction to Computers`` program establishes formal partnerships with local school districts and community-based organizations, introduces computer literacy to precollege students and their parents, and encourages students to pursue Scientific, Mathematical, Engineering, and Technical careers (SET). Hands-on assignments are given in each class, reinforcing the lesson taught. In addition, the program is designed to broaden the knowledge base of teachers in scientific/technical concepts, and Brookhaven National Laboratory continues to act as a liaison, offering educational outreach to diverse community organizations and groups. This manual contains the teacher`s lesson plans and the student documentation to this introduction to computer course.

  13. Toward a New Era: Alternatives for Revitalizing Student Services Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Deegan, William L.

    Alternatives for revitalizing the programs and management of student services in community colleges are reviewed in this paper. First, alternatives related to student services programs are considered, including: (1) the increased use of computer-assisted counseling to integrate student services more fully with mainstream academic activities; (2)…

  14. Alternatives for Revitalizing Student Services Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Deegan, William L.

    1984-01-01

    Reviews alternatives for revitalizing the programs and management of community college student services. As program development models, considers Miami-Dade Community College's computer-based instructional management system; entrepreneurial fee-based services; and divestment of situational or special-interest services to student groups. In…

  15. The Effectiveness of Computer-Assisted Instruction for Teaching Mathematics to Students with Specific Learning Disability

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stultz, Sherry L.

    2013-01-01

    Using computers to teach students is not a new idea. Computers have been utilized for educational purposes for over 80 years. However, the effectiveness of these programs for teaching mathematics to students with specific learning disability is unclear. This study was undertaken to determine if computer-assisted instruction was as effective as…

  16. A Program To Develop through LOGO the Computer Self-Confidence of Seventh Grade Low-Achieving Girls.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Angell, Marion D.

    This practicum report describes the development of a program designed to improve self-confidence in low-achieving seventh grade girls towards computers. The questionnaire "My Feelings Towards Computers" was used for pre- and post-comparisons. Students were introduced to the computer program LOGO, were taught to compose programs using the…

  17. Designing for deeper learning in a blended computer science course for middle school students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grover, Shuchi; Pea, Roy; Cooper, Stephen

    2015-04-01

    The focus of this research was to create and test an introductory computer science course for middle school. Titled "Foundations for Advancing Computational Thinking" (FACT), the course aims to prepare and motivate middle school learners for future engagement with algorithmic problem solving. FACT was also piloted as a seven-week course on Stanford's OpenEdX MOOC platform for blended in-class learning. Unique aspects of FACT include balanced pedagogical designs that address the cognitive, interpersonal, and intrapersonal aspects of "deeper learning"; a focus on pedagogical strategies for mediating and assessing for transfer from block-based to text-based programming; curricular materials for remedying misperceptions of computing; and "systems of assessments" (including formative and summative quizzes and tests, directed as well as open-ended programming assignments, and a transfer test) to get a comprehensive picture of students' deeper computational learning. Empirical investigations, accomplished over two iterations of a design-based research effort with students (aged 11-14 years) in a public school, sought to examine student understanding of algorithmic constructs, and how well students transferred this learning from Scratch to text-based languages. Changes in student perceptions of computing as a discipline were measured. Results and mixed-method analyses revealed that students in both studies (1) achieved substantial learning gains in algorithmic thinking skills, (2) were able to transfer their learning from Scratch to a text-based programming context, and (3) achieved significant growth toward a more mature understanding of computing as a discipline. Factor analyses of prior computing experience, multivariate regression analyses, and qualitative analyses of student projects and artifact-based interviews were conducted to better understand the factors affecting learning outcomes. Prior computing experiences (as measured by a pretest) and math ability were found to be strong predictors of learning outcomes.

  18. The Effect of Hints and Model Answers in a Student-Controlled Problem-Solving Program for Secondary Physics Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pol, Henk J.; Harskamp, Egbert G.; Suhre, Cor J. M.; Goedhart, Martin J.

    2008-01-01

    Many students experience difficulties in solving applied physics problems. Most programs that want students to improve problem-solving skills are concerned with the development of content knowledge. Physhint is an example of a student-controlled computer program that supports students in developing their strategic knowledge in combination with…

  19. Teaching Bioinformatics in Concert

    PubMed Central

    Goodman, Anya L.; Dekhtyar, Alex

    2014-01-01

    Can biology students without programming skills solve problems that require computational solutions? They can if they learn to cooperate effectively with computer science students. The goal of the in-concert teaching approach is to introduce biology students to computational thinking by engaging them in collaborative projects structured around the software development process. Our approach emphasizes development of interdisciplinary communication and collaboration skills for both life science and computer science students. PMID:25411792

  20. Enhancing Digital Fluency through a Training Program for Creative Problem Solving Using Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kim, SugHee; Chung, KwangSik; Yu, HeonChang

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this paper is to propose a training program for creative problem solving based on computer programming. The proposed program will encourage students to solve real-life problems through a creative thinking spiral related to cognitive skills with computer programming. With the goal of enhancing digital fluency through this proposed…

  1. Leveraging Scratch4SL and Second Life to motivate high school students' participation in introductory programming courses: findings from a case study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pellas, Nikolaos; Peroutseas, Efstratios

    2017-01-01

    Students in secondary education strive hard enough to understand basic programming concepts. With all that is known regarding the benefits of programming, little is the published evidence showing how high school students can learn basic programming concepts following innovative instructional formats correctly with the respect to gain/enhance their computational thinking skills. This distinction has caused lack of their motivation and interest in Computer Science courses. This case study presents the opinions of twenty-eight (n = 28) high school students who participated voluntarily in a 3D-game-like environment created in Second Life. This environment was combined with the 2D programming environment of Scratch4SL for the implementation of programming concepts (i.e. sequence and concurrent programming commands) in a blended instructional format. An instructional framework based on Papert's theory of Constructionism to assist students how to coordinate or manage better the learning material in collaborative practice-based learning activities is also proposed. By conducting a mixed-method research, before and after finishing several learning tasks, students' participation in focus group (qualitative data) and their motivation based on their experiences (quantitative data) are measured. Findings indicated that an instructional design framework based on Constructionism for acquiring or empowering students' social, cognitive, higher order and computational thinking skills is meaningful. Educational implications and recommendations for future research are also discussed.

  2. The Student-Teacher-Computer Team: Focus on the Computer.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ontario Inst. for Studies in Education, Toronto.

    Descriptions of essential computer elements, logic and programing techniques, and computer applications are provided in an introductory handbook for use by educators and students. Following a brief historical perspective, the organization of a computer system is schematically illustrated, functions of components are explained in non-technical…

  3. A Computer-Assisted Instructional Software Program in Mathematical Problem-Solving Skills for Medication Administration for Beginning Baccalaureate Nursing Students at San Jose State University.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wahl, Sharon C.

    Nursing educators and administrators are concerned about medication errors made by students which jeopardize patient safety. The inability to conceptualize and calculate medication dosages, often related to math anxiety, is implicated in such errors. A computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program is seen as a viable method of allowing students to…

  4. The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Achievement of High School Students Participating in a One-to-One Laptop Computer Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Weers, Anthony J.

    2012-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of socioeconomic status on the achievement of high school students participating in a one-to-one laptop computer program. Students living in poverty struggle to achieve in schools across the country, educators must address this issue. The independent variable in this study is socioeconomic…

  5. Fostering 21st Century Skill Development by Engaging Students in Authentic Game Design Projects in a High School Computer Programming Class

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Thomas, Michael K.; Ge, Xun; Greene, Barbara A.

    2011-01-01

    This study used technology-rich ethnography (TRE) to examine the use of game development in a high school computer programming class for the development of 21st century skills. High school students created games for elementary school students while obtaining formative feedback from their younger clients. Our experience suggests that in the…

  6. Computer-Aided Drafting and Design Series. Educational Resources for the Machine Tool Industry, Course Syllabi, [and] Instructor's Handbook. Student Laboratory Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Texas State Technical Coll. System, Waco.

    This package consists of course syllabi, an instructor's handbook, and a student laboratory manual for a 2-year vocational training program to prepare students for entry-level employment in computer-aided drafting and design in the machine tool industry. The program was developed through a modification of the DACUM (Developing a Curriculum)…

  7. Cisco Networking Academy Program for high school students: Formative & summative evaluation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cranford-Wesley, Deanne

    This study examined the effectiveness of the Cisco Network Technology Program in enhancing students' technology skills as measured by classroom strategies, student motivation, student attitude, and student learning. Qualitative and quantitative methods were utilized to determine the effectiveness of this program. The study focused on two 11th grade classrooms at Hamtramck High School. Hamtramck, an inner-city community located in Detroit, is racially and ethnically diverse. The majority of students speak English as a second language; more than 20 languages are represented in the school district. More than 70% of the students are considered to be economically at risk. Few students have computers at home, and their access to the few computers at school is limited. Purposive sampling was conducted for this study. The sample consisted of 40 students, all of whom were trained in Cisco Networking Technologies. The researcher examined viable learning strategies in teaching a Cisco Networking class that focused on a web-based approach. Findings revealed that the Cisco Networking Academy Program was an excellent vehicle for teaching networking skills and, therefore, helping to enhance computer skills for the participating students. However, only a limited number of students were able to participate in the program, due to limited computer labs and lack of qualified teaching personnel. In addition, the cumbersome technical language posed an obstacle to students' success in networking. Laboratory assignments were preferred by 90% of the students over lecture and PowerPoint presentations. Practical applications, lab projects, interactive assignments, PowerPoint presentations, lectures, discussions, readings, research, and assessment all helped to increase student learning and proficiency and to enrich the classroom experience. Classroom strategies are crucial to student success in the networking program. Equipment must be updated and utilized to ensure that students are applying practical skills to networking concepts. The results also suggested a high level of motivation and retention in student participants. Students in both classes scored 80% proficiency on the Achievement Motivation Profile Assessment. The identified standard proficiency score was 70%, and both classes exceeded the standard.

  8. Some Measurement and Instruction Related Considerations Regarding Computer Assisted Testing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oosterhof, Albert C.; Salisbury, David F.

    The Assessment Resource Center (ARC) at Florida State University provides computer assisted testing (CAT) for approximately 4,000 students each term. Computer capabilities permit a small proctoring staff to administer tests simultaneously to large numbers of students. Programs provide immediate feedback for students and generate a variety of…

  9. Results of an Experimental Program to Provide Low Cost Computer Searches of the NASA Information File to University Graduate Students in the Southeast. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smetana, Frederick O.; Phillips, Dennis M.

    In an effort to increase dissemination of scientific and technological information, a program was undertaken whereby graduate students in science and engineering could request a computer-produced bibliography and/or abstracts of documents identified by the computer. The principal resource was the National Aeronautics and Space Administration…

  10. Evaluation of Chapter I Take-Home Computer Program. Report No. 7, Vol. 25.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fraser, Lowrie A.

    The Chapter I Take-Home Computer (THC) program was established in nine elementary and eight middle schools in Atlanta (Georgia) in the 1989-90 school year. One hundred and eighty computers were sent home with 422 students, whose parents were willing to work with the students, for 6-week periods. Log sheets were kept by each child regarding the…

  11. Middle School Teachers' Perceptions of Computer-Assisted Reading Intervention Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bippert, Kelli; Harmon, Janis

    2017-01-01

    Middle schools often turn to computer-assisted reading intervention programs to improve student reading. The questions guiding this study are (a) in what ways are computer-assisted reading intervention programs utilized, and (b) what are teachers' perceptions about these intervention programs? Nineteen secondary reading teachers were interviewed…

  12. Students' explanations in complex learning of disciplinary programming

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vieira, Camilo

    Computational Science and Engineering (CSE) has been denominated as the third pillar of science and as a set of important skills to solve the problems of a global society. Along with the theoretical and the experimental approaches, computation offers a third alternative to solve complex problems that require processing large amounts of data, or representing complex phenomena that are not easy to experiment with. Despite the relevance of CSE, current professionals and scientists are not well prepared to take advantage of this set of tools and methods. Computation is usually taught in an isolated way from engineering disciplines, and therefore, engineers do not know how to exploit CSE affordances. This dissertation intends to introduce computational tools and methods contextualized within the Materials Science and Engineering curriculum. Considering that learning how to program is a complex task, the dissertation explores effective pedagogical practices that can support student disciplinary and computational learning. Two case studies will be evaluated to identify the characteristics of effective worked examples in the context of CSE. Specifically, this dissertation explores students explanations of these worked examples in two engineering courses with different levels of transparency: a programming course in materials science and engineering glass box and a thermodynamics course involving computational representations black box. Results from this study suggest that students benefit in different ways from writing in-code comments. These benefits include but are not limited to: connecting xv individual lines of code to the overall problem, getting familiar with the syntax, learning effective algorithm design strategies, and connecting computation with their discipline. Students in the glass box context generate higher quality explanations than students in the black box context. These explanations are related to students prior experiences. Specifically, students with low ability to do programming engage in a more thorough explanation process than students with high ability. This dissertation concludes proposing an adaptation to the instructional principles of worked-examples for the context of CSE education.

  13. Individual Differences in Learning Computer Programming: A Social Cognitive Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Akar, Sacide Guzin Mazman; Altun, Arif

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to investigate and conceptualize the ranks of importance of social cognitive variables on university students' computer programming performances. Spatial ability, working memory, self-efficacy, gender, prior knowledge and the universities students attend were taken as variables to be analyzed. The study has been…

  14. Computers, Invention, and the Power to Change Student Writing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Strickland, James

    A study examined the quantity and quality of ideas produced in freshman composition students' writing to determine whether computer assisted instruction (CAI) stimulates invention as well as or better than current invention instruction in traditional classrooms. Two CAI programs were used: QUEST, the systematic program that examines an item/event…

  15. Computer Programming and Biomolecular Structure Studies: A Step beyond Internet Bioinformatics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Likic, Vladimir A.

    2006-01-01

    This article describes the experience of teaching structural bioinformatics to third year undergraduate students in a subject titled "Biomolecular Structure and Bioinformatics." Students were introduced to computer programming and used this knowledge in a practical application as an alternative to the well established Internet bioinformatics…

  16. 37 CFR 201.40 - Exemption to prohibition against circumvention.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... security of the owner or operator of a computer, computer system, or computer network; and (ii) The... film and media studies students; (ii) Documentary filmmaking; (iii) Noncommercial videos. (2) Computer... lawfully obtained, with computer programs on the telephone handset. (3) Computer programs, in the form of...

  17. Democratizing Computer Science

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Margolis, Jane; Goode, Joanna; Ryoo, Jean J.

    2015-01-01

    Computer science programs are too often identified with a narrow stratum of the student population, often white or Asian boys who have access to computers at home. But because computers play such a huge role in our world today, all students can benefit from the study of computer science and the opportunity to build skills related to computing. The…

  18. A Service-Based Program Evaluation Platform for Enhancing Student Engagement in Assignments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wu, Ye-Chi; Ma, Lee Wei; Jiau, Hewijin Christine

    2013-01-01

    Programming assignments are commonly used in computer science education to encourage students to practice target concepts and evaluate their learning status. Ensuring students are engaged in such assignments is critical in attracting and retaining students. To this end, WebHat, a service-based program evaluation platform, is introduced in this…

  19. A Financial Technology Entrepreneurship Program for Computer Science Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lawler, James P.; Joseph, Anthony

    2011-01-01

    Education in entrepreneurship is becoming a critical area of curricula for computer science students. Few schools of computer science have a concentration in entrepreneurship in the computing curricula. The paper presents Technology Entrepreneurship in the curricula at a leading school of computer science and information systems, in which students…

  20. Enhancing the Programming Experience for First-Year Engineering Students through Hands-On Integrated Computer Experiences

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Canfield, Stephen L.; Ghafoor, Sheikh; Abdelrahman, Mohamed

    2012-01-01

    This paper describes the redesign and implementation of the course, "Introduction to Programming for Engineers" using microcontroller (MCU) hardware as the programming target. The objective of this effort is to improve the programming competency for engineering students by more closely relating the initial programming experience to the student's…

  1. Teaching Computational Thinking: Deciding to Take Small Steps in a Curriculum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Madoff, R. D.; Putkonen, J.

    2016-12-01

    While computational thinking and reasoning are not necessarily the same as computer programming, programs such as MATLAB can provide the medium through which the logical and computational thinking at the foundation of science can be taught, learned, and experienced. And while math and computer anxiety are often discussed as critical obstacles to students' progress in their geoscience curriculum, it is here suggested that an unfamiliarity with the computational and logical reasoning is what poses a first stumbling block, in addition to the hurdle of expending the effort to learn how to translate a computational problem into the appropriate computer syntax in order to achieve the intended results. Because computational thinking is so vital for all fields, there is a need to initiate many and to build support in the curriculum for it. This presentation focuses on elements to bring into the teaching of computational thinking that are intended as additions to learning MATLAB programming as a basic tool. Such elements include: highlighting a key concept, discussing a basic geoscience problem where the concept would show up, having the student draw or outline a sketch of what they think an operation needs to do in order to perform a desired result, and then finding the relevant syntax to work with. This iterative pedagogy simulates what someone with more experience in programming does, so it discloses the thinking process in the black box of a result. Intended as only a very early stage introduction, advanced applications would need to be developed as students go through an academic program. The objective would be to expose and introduce computational thinking to majors and non-majors and to alleviate some of the math and computer anxiety so that students would choose to advance on with programming or modeling, whether it is built into a 4-year curriculum or not.

  2. Scratch: Multimedia Programming Environment for Young Gifted Learners

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lee, Young-Jin

    2011-01-01

    Despite the educational benefits, computer programming has not been adopted in the current K-12 education as much as it could have been. One of the reasons for the low adoption of computer programming in K-12 education is the time it takes for (especially young) students to learn computer programming using a text-based programming language, which…

  3. Adapting Computer Programming Self-Efficacy Scale and Engineering Students' Self-Efficacy Perceptions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korkmaz, Özgen; Altun, Halis

    2014-01-01

    Students might have different type and different level of perceptions: Positive or negative perceptions on programming; a perception on benefit of programming, perceptions related to difficulties of programming process etc. The perception of student on their own competence is defined as self-efficacy. Based on the discussions reported in…

  4. One-to-One Laptop Programs: Do Students in Identified Illinois High Schools Have an Advantage When State Assessments Are Computer-Based?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bleyer, Charles T.

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine if students in identified Illinois high schools who were a part of a one-to-one (1:1) laptop program achieved higher results on the computer-based Partnership for the Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) assessment than students in identified Illinois high schools that did not…

  5. Low-Budget Computer Programming in Your School (An Alternative to the Cost of Large Computers). Illinois Series on Educational Applications of Computers. No. 14.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dennis, J. Richard; Thomson, David

    This paper is concerned with a low cost alternative for providing computer experience to secondary school students. The brief discussion covers the programmable calculator and its relevance for teaching the concepts and the rudiments of computer programming and for computer problem solving. A list of twenty-five programming activities related to…

  6. Survey: Computer Usage in Design Courses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Henley, Ernest J.

    1983-01-01

    Presents results of a survey of chemical engineering departments regarding computer usage in senior design courses. Results are categorized according to: computer usage (use of process simulators, student-written programs, faculty-written or "canned" programs; costs (hard and soft money); and available software. Programs offered are…

  7. Computer-Based Educational Software System. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brandt, Richard C.; Davis, Bradley N.

    CBESS (Computer-Based Educational Software System) is a set of 22 programs addressing authoring, instructional delivery, and instructional management. The programs are divided into five groups: (1) Computer-Based Memorization System (CBMS), which helps students acquire and maintain declarative (factual) knowledge (11 programs); (2) Language Skills…

  8. Perceptions of a New Medium: Gifted Children Think About Computers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1999-04-12

    The purpose of this study was to begin to investigate the cognitive and affective attitudes that gifted students have about computers. As a teacher...of gifted students in the field of computer programming, I wanted to learn what these students thought about the machine as a part of their lives. I

  9. The Relationship between Computational Fluency and Student Success in General Studies Mathematics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hegeman, Jennifer; Waters, Gavin

    2012-01-01

    Many developmental mathematics programs emphasize computational fluency with the assumption that this is a necessary contributor to student success in general studies mathematics. In an effort to determine which skills are most essential, scores on a computational fluency test were correlated with student success in general studies mathematics at…

  10. Integrating Data Base into the Elementary School Science Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schlenker, Richard M.

    This document describes seven science activities that combine scientific principles and computers. The objectives for the activities are to show students how the computer can be used as a tool to store and arrange scientific data, provide students with experience using the computer as a tool to manage scientific data, and provide students with…

  11. Providing Elementary Students Equitable Access to Notebook Computers by Empowering Three School Communities in Shared Decision Making.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Despot, Paula C.

    This practicum was designed to provide elementary students from low-socioeconomic school communities equitable opportunities to use notebook computer technology in the communication process. A multi-dimensional staff development program was designed and conducted to integrate computer technology in the classroom. Students and their families were…

  12. Assessing the Integration of Computational Modeling and ASU Modeling Instruction in the High School Physics Classroom

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aiken, John; Schatz, Michael; Burk, John; Caballero, Marcos; Thoms, Brian

    2012-03-01

    We describe the assessment of computational modeling in a ninth grade classroom in the context of the Arizona Modeling Instruction physics curriculum. Using a high-level programming environment (VPython), students develop computational models to predict the motion of objects under a variety of physical situations (e.g., constant net force), to simulate real world phenomenon (e.g., car crash), and to visualize abstract quantities (e.g., acceleration). The impact of teaching computation is evaluated through a proctored assignment that asks the students to complete a provided program to represent the correct motion. Using questions isomorphic to the Force Concept Inventory we gauge students understanding of force in relation to the simulation. The students are given an open ended essay question that asks them to explain the steps they would use to model a physical situation. We also investigate the attitudes and prior experiences of each student using the Computation Modeling in Physics Attitudinal Student Survey (COMPASS) developed at Georgia Tech as well as a prior computational experiences survey.

  13. Computer problem-solving coaches for introductory physics: Design and usability studies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ryan, Qing X.; Frodermann, Evan; Heller, Kenneth; Hsu, Leonardo; Mason, Andrew

    2016-06-01

    The combination of modern computing power, the interactivity of web applications, and the flexibility of object-oriented programming may finally be sufficient to create computer coaches that can help students develop metacognitive problem-solving skills, an important competence in our rapidly changing technological society. However, no matter how effective such coaches might be, they will only be useful if they are attractive to students. We describe the design and testing of a set of web-based computer programs that act as personal coaches to students while they practice solving problems from introductory physics. The coaches are designed to supplement regular human instruction, giving students access to effective forms of practice outside class. We present results from large-scale usability tests of the computer coaches and discuss their implications for future versions of the coaches.

  14. A Computer-Aided Writing Program for Learning Disabled Adolescents.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fais, Laurie; Wanderman, Richard

    The paper describes the application of a computer-assisted writing program in a special high school for learning disabled and dyslexic students and reports on a study of the program's effectiveness. Particular advantages of the Macintosh Computer for such a program are identified including use of the mouse pointing tool, graphic icons to identify…

  15. Some Analogies between Computer Programming and the Composing Process.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Skulicz, Matthew

    Since there are similarities between the process of writing computer programs and the process of writing successful expository prose, a student's knowledge of computer programing can contribute to the understanding of some principles of composition. The establishment of a clear objective is the first priority of both the writer and the programer,…

  16. The Effects of a Robot Game Environment on Computer Programming Education for Elementary School Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shim, Jaekwoun; Kwon, Daiyoung; Lee, Wongyu

    2017-01-01

    In the past, computer programming was perceived as a task only carried out by computer scientists; in the 21st century, however, computer programming is viewed as a critical and necessary skill that everyone should learn. In order to improve teaching of problem-solving abilities in a computing environment, extensive research is being done on…

  17. Evolution in Student Perceptions of a Flipped Classroom in a Computer Programming Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Davenport, Casey E.

    2018-01-01

    The "flipped classroom" pedagogical approach is used for a combined undergraduate and graduate computer programming course in meteorology. Details of how the course was flipped are discussed, as well as how student perceptions of the approach, which were gathered from qualitative feedback collected throughout the semester, evolved.…

  18. An Empathic Avatar in a Computer-Aided Learning Program to Encourage and Persuade Learners

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chen, Gwo-Dong; Lee, Jih-Hsien; Wang, Chin-Yeh; Chao, Po-Yao; Li, Liang-Yi; Lee, Tzung-Yi

    2012-01-01

    Animated pedagogical agents with characteristics such as facial expressions, gestures, and human emotions, under an interactive user interface are attractive to students and have high potential to promote students' learning. This study proposes a convenient method to add an embodied empathic avatar into a computer-aided learning program; learners…

  19. Enhancing Student Success through the Use of Interactive Videodisc Technology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pokrass, Richard J.; And Others

    Burlington County College in New Jersey has integrated Interactive Videodisc Technology (IVT) into several of its programs, beginning with the college's nursing program. IVT, at its highest level, is a merging of a laser disc player, a personal computer, computer software, and a qualified instructor, designed to bring to students a new dimension…

  20. The Effectiveness of a Tablet Computer-Aided Intervention Program for Improving Reading Fluency

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Özbek, Ahmet Bilal; Girli, Alev

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a tablet computer-aided intervention program for improving reading fluency. It also investigates the opinions of students and parents about this intervention by using skill- and performance-based techniques, which have been investigated qualitatively. Three students with a learning…

  1. Evaluation of DILearn: An Interactive Computer-Assisted Learning Program for Drug Information.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tunget, Cynthia L.; And Others

    1993-01-01

    Use of an interactive computer-assisted learning program to teach basic skills in obtaining drug information was investigated with 26 doctoral pharmacy students and a control group of 25 students receiving lecture instruction. Findings indicated no significant differences in short-term retention of drug information between groups and that students…

  2. Computer-Focused Russian Bilingual Instructional Program, 1988-89. OREA Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berney, Tomi D.; Gritzer, Glenn

    In its fourth year, the computer-Focused Russian Bilingual Instructional Program provided instructional and support activities to 276 Russian-speaking students, most of whom are limited English proficient, at 4 public and 2 private high schools in Brooklyn. Instructional activities varied by site. Public school students took English as a Second…

  3. Bilingualism in the Computer Age. 1987-88. OREA Evaluation Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berney, Tomi D.; Alvarez, Rosalyn

    Bilingualism in the Computer Age, a federally-funded bilingual education program at Morris High School in the Bronx (New York), served 197 native low-income Spanish-speaking students in its second year of funding. Program objectives were to improve students' English language proficiency and mainstream them as quickly as possible, develop their…

  4. Software Tools: A One-Semester Secondary School Computer Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bromley, John; Lakatos, John

    1985-01-01

    Provides a course outline, describes equipment and teacher requirements, discusses student evaluation and course outcomes, and details the computer programs used in a high school course. The course is designed to teach students use of the microcomputer as a tool through hands-on experience with a variety of commercial software programs. (MBR)

  5. Art and Technology: Computers in the Studio?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ruby-Baird, Janet

    1997-01-01

    Because the graphic industry demands graduates with computer skills, art students want college programs that include complex computer technologies. However, students can produce good computer art only if they have mastered traditional drawing and design skills. Discusses designing an art curriculum including both technology and traditional course…

  6. Speech recognition-based and automaticity programs to help students with severe reading and spelling problems.

    PubMed

    Higgins, Eleanor L; Raskind, Marshall H

    2004-12-01

    This study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of two programs developed by the Frostig Center Research Department to improve the reading and spelling of students with learning disabilities (LD): a computer Speech Recognition-based Program (SRBP) and a computer and text-based Automaticity Program (AP). Twenty-eight LD students with reading and spelling difficulties (aged 8 to 18) received each program for 17 weeks and were compared with 16 students in a contrast group who did not receive either program. After adjusting for age and IQ, both the SRBP and AP groups showed significant differences over the contrast group in improving word recognition and reading comprehension. Neither program showed significant differences over contrasts in spelling. The SRBP also improved the performance of the target group when compared with the contrast group on phonological elision and nonword reading efficiency tasks. The AP showed significant differences in all process and reading efficiency measures.

  7. A Combination of Hand-Held Models and Computer Imaging Programs Helps Students Answer Oral Questions about Molecular Structure and Function: A Controlled Investigation of Student Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harris, Michelle A.; Peck, Ronald F.; Colton, Shannon; Morris, Jennifer; Neto, Elias Chaibub; Kallio, Julie

    2009-01-01

    We conducted a controlled investigation to examine whether a combination of computer imagery and tactile tools helps introductory cell biology laboratory undergraduate students better learn about protein structure/function relationships as compared with computer imagery alone. In all five laboratory sections, students used the molecular imaging…

  8. Computer Technologies for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities. Adaptech Project = Technologies Informatiques pour les Etudiants ayant des Incapacites au Postsecondaire. Project Adaptech.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fossey, Myrtis-Eirene; Fichten, Catherine S.; Barile, Maria; Asuncion, Jennison V.

    In 1999, a survey was conducted of almost 800 university students with different disabilities across Canada to investigate what computer equipment students used and wanted, how they financed their computer technologies, and why they failed to take advantage of government subsidy programs. Results from the survey indicate many students did not know…

  9. A computer assisted tutorial for applications of computer spreadsheets in nursing financial management.

    PubMed

    Edwardson, S R; Pejsa, J

    1993-01-01

    A computer-based tutorial for teaching nursing financial management concepts was developed using the macro function of a commercially available spreadsheet program. The goals of the tutorial were to provide students with an experience with spreadsheets as a computer tool and to teach selected financial management concepts. Preliminary results show the tutorial was well received by students. Suggestions are made for overcoming the general lack of computer sophistication among students.

  10. Computer Mediated Support for Student Teaching and First Year Teaching.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clarken, Rodney H.

    This paper describes computer-mediated distance learning experiments in field settings by a rural teacher education program, in which student teachers and a student teaching seminar leader at Northern Michigan University conferenced via electronic mail. Participating student teachers, who were teaching in schools 300 miles apart, were expected to…

  11. The Effect of Computer Assisted and Computer Based Teaching Methods on Computer Course Success and Computer Using Attitudes of Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tosun, Nilgün; Suçsuz, Nursen; Yigit, Birol

    2006-01-01

    The purpose of this research was to investigate the effects of the computer-assisted and computer-based instructional methods on students achievement at computer classes and on their attitudes towards using computers. The study, which was completed in 6 weeks, were carried out with 94 sophomores studying in formal education program of Primary…

  12. Encouraging more women into computer science: Initiating a single-sex intervention program in Sweden

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Brandell, Gerd; Carlsson, Svante; Ekblom, Håkan; Nord, Ann-Charlotte

    1997-11-01

    The process of starting a new program in computer science and engineering, heavily based on applied mathematics and only open to women, is described in this paper. The program was introduced into an educational system without any tradition in single-sex education. Important observations made during the process included the considerable interest in mathematics and curiosity about computer science found among female students at the secondary school level, and the acceptance of the single-sex program by the staff, administration, and management of the university as well as among male and female students. The process described highlights the importance of preparing the environment for a totally new type of educational program.

  13. An evaluative study of the impact of the "Curriculum Alignment Toolbox" on middle school science achievement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jones, Carol L.

    The number of computer-assisted education programs on the market is overwhelming science teachers all over the Michigan. Though the need is great, many teachers are reluctant to procure computer-assisted science education programs because they are unsure of the effectiveness of such programs. The Curriculum Alignment Toolbox (CAT) is a computer-based program, aligned to the Michigan Curriculum Framework's Benchmarks for Science Education and designed to supplement science instruction in Michigan middle schools. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of CAT in raising the standardized test scores of Michigan students. This study involved 419 students from one urban, one suburban and one rural middle school. Data on these students was collected from 4 sources: (1) the 8th grade Michigan Education Assessment Program (MEAP) test, (2) a 9 question, 5-point Likert-type scale student survey, (3) 4 open-response student survey questions and (4) classroom observations. Results of this study showed that the experimental group of 226 students who utilized the CAT program in addition to traditional instruction did significantly better on the Science MEAP test than the control group of 193 students who received only traditional instruction. The study also showed that the urban students from a "high needs" school seemed to benefit most from the program. Additionally, though both genders and all identified ethnic groups benefited from the program, males benefited more than females and whites, blacks and Asian/Pacific Islander students benefited more than Hispanic and multi-racial students. The CAT program's success helping raise the middle school MEAP scores may well be due to some of its components. CAT provided students with game-like experiences all based on the benchmarks required for science education and upon which the MEAP test is based. The program also provided visual and auditory stimulation as well as numerous references which students indicated they enjoyed. Additionally, as best-practice, the questioning in all the gaming within CAT did not allow a student to continue until he/she had given the correct answer, thus reinforcing the correct response.

  14. Use of Computer-Based Case Studies in a Problem-Solving Curriculum.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Haworth, Ian S.; And Others

    1997-01-01

    Describes the use of three case studies, on computer, to enhance problem solving and critical thinking among doctoral pharmacy students in a physical chemistry course. Students are expected to use specific computer programs, spreadsheets, electronic mail, molecular graphics, word processing, online literature searching, and other computer-based…

  15. Programs for Fundamentals of Chemistry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gallardo, Julio; Delgado, Steven

    This document provides computer programs, written in BASIC PLUS, for presenting fundamental or remedial college chemistry students with chemical problems in a computer assisted instructional program. Programs include instructions, a sample run, and 14 separate practice sessions covering: mathematical operations, using decimals, solving…

  16. Projection of Teachers' Salaries for Contract Negotiations.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ott, Jack P.

    1982-01-01

    Lists and explains a computer program written in BASIC which calculates teacher salaries using a salary index. Modification of this payroll program is suggested as a student project in schools which teach computer programing. (JJD)

  17. A Combination of Hand-held Models and Computer Imaging Programs Helps Students Answer Oral Questions about Molecular Structure and Function: A Controlled Investigation of Student Learning

    PubMed Central

    Peck, Ronald F.; Colton, Shannon; Morris, Jennifer; Chaibub Neto, Elias; Kallio, Julie

    2009-01-01

    We conducted a controlled investigation to examine whether a combination of computer imagery and tactile tools helps introductory cell biology laboratory undergraduate students better learn about protein structure/function relationships as compared with computer imagery alone. In all five laboratory sections, students used the molecular imaging program, Protein Explorer (PE). In the three experimental sections, three-dimensional physical models were made available to the students, in addition to PE. Student learning was assessed via oral and written research summaries and videotaped interviews. Differences between the experimental and control group students were not found in our typical course assessments such as research papers, but rather were revealed during one-on-one interviews with students at the end of the semester. A subset of students in the experimental group produced superior answers to some higher-order interview questions as compared with students in the control group. During the interview, students in both groups preferred to use either the hand-held models alone or in combination with the PE imaging program. Students typically did not use any tools when answering knowledge (lower-level thinking) questions, but when challenged with higher-level thinking questions, students in both the control and experimental groups elected to use the models. PMID:19255134

  18. The Impact of a One-to-One Laptop Computer Program on the Literacy Achievement of Eighth-Grade Students with Differing Measured Cognitive Skill Levels Who Are Eligible and Not Eligible for Free or Reduced Price Lunch Program Participation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Weber, Eric G.

    2012-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a one-to-one laptop computer program on the literacy achievement of eighth-grade students with above average, average, and below average measured cognitive skill levels who are eligible and not eligible for free or reduced price lunch program participation. The study analyzed, student…

  19. Chemical Equilibrium, Unit 2: Le Chatelier's Principle. A Computer-Enriched Module for Introductory Chemistry. Student's Guide and Teacher's Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jameson, A. Keith

    Presented are the teacher's guide and student materials for one of a series of self-instructional, computer-based learning modules for an introductory, undergraduate chemistry course. The student manual for this unit on Le Chatelier's principle includes objectives, prerequisites, pretest, instructions for executing the computer program, and…

  20. A Study of Attrition and the Use of Student Learning Communities in the Computer Science Introductory Programming Sequence

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Howles, Trudy

    2009-01-01

    Student attrition and low graduation rates are critical problems in computer science education. Disappointing graduation rates and declining student interest have caught the attention of business leaders, researchers and universities. With weak graduation rates and little interest in scientific computing, many are concerned about the USA's ability…

  1. Tablet Personal Computer Integration in Higher Education: Applying the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use Technology Model to Understand Supporting Factors

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Moran, Mark; Hawkes, Mark; El Gayar, Omar

    2010-01-01

    Many educational institutions have implemented ubiquitous or required laptop, notebook, or tablet personal computing programs for their students. Yet, limited evidence exists to validate integration and acceptance of the technology among student populations. This research examines student acceptance of mobile computing devices using a modification…

  2. Teaching Computational Geophysics Classes using Active Learning Techniques

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Keers, H.; Rondenay, S.; Harlap, Y.; Nordmo, I.

    2016-12-01

    We give an overview of our experience in teaching two computational geophysics classes at the undergraduate level. In particular we describe The first class is for most students the first programming class and assumes that the students have had an introductory course in geophysics. In this class the students are introduced to basic Matlab skills: use of variables, basic array and matrix definition and manipulation, basic statistics, 1D integration, plotting of lines and surfaces, making of .m files and basic debugging techniques. All of these concepts are applied to elementary but important concepts in earthquake and exploration geophysics (including epicentre location, computation of travel time curves for simple layered media plotting of 1D and 2D velocity models etc.). It is important to integrate the geophysics with the programming concepts: we found that this enhances students' understanding. Moreover, as this is a 3 year Bachelor program, and this class is taught in the 2nd semester, there is little time for a class that focusses on only programming. In the second class, which is optional and can be taken in the 4th or 6th semester, but often is also taken by Master students we extend the Matlab programming to include signal processing and ordinary and partial differential equations, again with emphasis on geophysics (such as ray tracing and solving the acoustic wave equation). This class also contains a project in which the students have to write a brief paper on a topic in computational geophysics, preferably with programming examples. When teaching these classes it was found that active learning techniques, in which the students actively participate in the class, either individually, in pairs or in groups, are indispensable. We give a brief overview of the various activities that we have developed when teaching theses classes.

  3. Using Problem Solving to Teach a Programming Language.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Milbrandt, George

    1995-01-01

    Computer studies courses should incorporate as many computer concepts and programming language experiences as possible. A gradual increase in problem difficulty will help the student to understand various computer concepts, and the programming language's syntax and structure. A sidebar provides two examples of how to establish a learning…

  4. Correlates of Success in Introductory Programming: A Study with Middle School Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Qian, Yizhou; Lehman, James D.

    2016-01-01

    The demand for computing professionals in the workplace has led to increased attention to computer science education, and introductory computer science courses have been introduced at different levels of education. This study investigated the relationship between gender, academic performance in non-programming subjects, and programming learning…

  5. Learning Motivation in E-Learning Facilitated Computer Programming Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Law, Kris M. Y.; Lee, Victor C. S.; Yu, Y. T.

    2010-01-01

    Computer programming skills constitute one of the core competencies that graduates from many disciplines, such as engineering and computer science, are expected to possess. Developing good programming skills typically requires students to do a lot of practice, which cannot sustain unless they are adequately motivated. This paper reports a…

  6. CAPSAS: Computer Assisted Program for the Selection of Appropriate Statistics.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shermis, Mark D.; Albert, Susan L.

    A computer-assisted program has been developed for the selection of statistics or statistical techniques by both students and researchers. Based on Andrews, Klem, Davidson, O'Malley and Rodgers "A Guide for Selecting Statistical Techniques for Analyzing Social Science Data," this FORTRAN-compiled interactive computer program was…

  7. Exploring Poetry through Interactive Computer Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nimchinsky, Howard; Camp, Jocelyn

    The goal of a project was to design, test, and evaluate several computer programs that allow students in introductory literature and poetry courses to explore a poem in detail and, through a dialogue with the program, to develop their own interpretation of it. Computer programs were completed on poems by Robert Frost and W.H. Auden. Both programs…

  8. Improving student retention in computer engineering technology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pierozinski, Russell Ivan

    The purpose of this research project was to improve student retention in the Computer Engineering Technology program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology by reducing the number of dropouts and increasing the graduation rate. This action research project utilized a mixed methods approach of a survey and face-to-face interviews. The participants were male and female, with a large majority ranging from 18 to 21 years of age. The research found that participants recognized their skills and capability, but their capacity to remain in the program was dependent on understanding and meeting the demanding pace and rigour of the program. The participants recognized that curriculum delivery along with instructor-student interaction had an impact on student retention. To be successful in the program, students required support in four domains: academic, learning management, career, and social.

  9. Exploring Students Intentions to Study Computer Science and Identifying the Differences among ICT and Programming Based Courses

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Giannakos, Michail N.

    2014-01-01

    Computer Science (CS) courses comprise both Programming and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) issues; however these two areas have substantial differences, inter alia the attitudes and beliefs of the students regarding the intended learning content. In this research, factors from the Social Cognitive Theory and Unified Theory of…

  10. Effects of Computer Programming on Students' Cognitive Performance: A Quantitative Synthesis.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Liao, Yuen-Kuang Cliff

    A meta-analysis was performed to synthesize existing data concerning the effects of computer programing on cognitive outcomes of students. Sixty-five studies were located from three sources, and their quantitative data were transformed into a common scale--Effect Size (ES). The analysis showed that 58 (89%) of the study-weighted ESs were positive…

  11. Flight Training for a Pilot Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gunter, Mary

    1995-01-01

    A computer-based curriculum program called Computers Helping Instruction and Learning Development (Project CHILD) has been tested in 82 classrooms in 10 elementary schools in Okaloosa County, Florida. As part of a sixth-grade follow-up study, students in Project CHILD had a B average in math and language arts versus a C average for students in a…

  12. MedEthEx Online: A Computer-based Learning Program in Medical Ethics and Communication Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fleetwood, Janet; Vaught, Wayne; Feldman, Debra; Gracely, Edward; Kassutto, Zach; Novack, Dennis

    2000-01-01

    Assessed MedEthEx Online, a computer-based learning program, in improving communication skills as part of a required bioethics course for medical students. Exam scores of users were comparable with non-users, although computerized-learning students scored higher in specific exam areas, felt somewhat more clinically prepared, and rated the course…

  13. Attitudes toward Advanced and Multivariate Statistics When Using Computers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kennedy, Robert L.; McCallister, Corliss Jean

    This study investigated the attitudes toward statistics of graduate students who studied advanced statistics in a course in which the focus of instruction was the use of a computer program in class. The use of the program made it possible to provide an individualized, self-paced, student-centered, and activity-based course. The three sections…

  14. A Computer Program To Increase Comprehension of the Cartesian Rectangular Coordinate System in High School Pre-Algebra Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Exley, I. Sheck

    The high percentage of high school pre-algebra students having difficulty learning the abstract concept of graphing ordered pairs on the Cartesian rectangular coordinate system was addressed by the creation and implementation of a computer-managed instructional program. Modules consisted of a pretest, instruction, two practice sessions, and a…

  15. [Computer Program PEDAGE -- MARKTF-M5-F4.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Toronto Univ. (Ontario). Dept. of Geology.

    The computer program MARKTF-M5, written in FORTRAN IV, scores tests (consisting of true-or-false statement about concepts or facts) by comparing the list of true or false values prepared by the instructor with those from the students. The output consists of information to the supervisor about the performance of the students, primarily for his…

  16. Robotic Challenges: Robots Bring New Life to Gifted Classes, Teach Students Hands-On Problem Solving, Computer Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Ruth Baynard

    1994-01-01

    Intermediate level academically talented students learn essential elements of computer programming by working with robots at enrichment workshops at Dwight-Englewood School in Englewood, New Jersey. The children combine creative thinking and problem-solving skills to program the robots' microcomputers to perform a variety of movements. (JDD)

  17. Improving Written Expression of Seventh Grade Mildly Intellectually Disabled Students Utilizing a Basal Reading Program, Journal Writing and Computer Applications.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wimberly, Sabrenai R.

    A practicum was designed to increase mildly intellectually disabled students' written communication skills by demonstrating functional written expression skills in daily assignments and in social communication. A sequenced reading and language program with the integration of journal writing and computer applications was utilized. Seventh- and…

  18. A Peer-Assisted Learning Experience in Computer Programming Language Learning and Developing Computer Programming Skills

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Altintas, Tugba; Gunes, Ali; Sayan, Hamiyet

    2016-01-01

    Peer learning or, as commonly expressed, peer-assisted learning (PAL) involves school students who actively assist others to learn and in turn benefit from an effective learning environment. This research was designed to support students in becoming more autonomous in their learning, help them enhance their confidence level in tackling computer…

  19. The ZAP Project: Designing Interactive Computer Tools for Learning Psychology

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hulshof, Casper; Eysink, Tessa; de Jong, Ton

    2006-01-01

    In the ZAP project, a set of interactive computer programs called "ZAPs" was developed. The programs were designed in such a way that first-year students experience psychological phenomena in a vivid and self-explanatory way. Students can either take the role of participant in a psychological experiment, they can experience phenomena themselves,…

  20. Huntington II Simulation Program - MALAR. Student Workbook, Teacher's Guide, and Resource Handbook.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Friedland, James; Frishman, Austin

    Described is the computer model "MALAR" which deals with malaria and its eradication. A computer program allows the tenth- to twelfth-grade student to attempt to control a malaria epidemic. This simulation provides a context within which to study the biological, economic, social, political, and ecological aspects of a classic world health problem.…

  1. Computer-Assisted, Counselor-Delivered Smoking Cessation Counseling for Community College Students: Intervention Approach and Sample Characteristics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Prokhorov, Alexander V.; Fouladi, Rachel T.; de Moor, Carl; Warneke, Carla L.; Luca, Mario; Jones, Mary Mullin; Rosenblum, Carol; Emmons, Karen M.; Hudmon, Karen Suchanek; Yost, Tracey E.; Gritz, Ellen R.

    2007-01-01

    This report presents the experimental approach and baseline findings from "Look at Your Health," an ongoing study to develop and evaluate a computer-assisted, counselor-delivered smoking cessation program for community college students. It describes the expert system software program used for data collection and for provision of tailored feedback,…

  2. CaseLog: semantic network interface to a student computer-based patient record system.

    PubMed Central

    Cimino, C.; Goldman, E. K.; Curtis, J. A.; Reichgott, M. J.

    1993-01-01

    We have developed a computer program called CaseLog, which serves as an exemplary, computer-based patient record (CPR) system. The program allows for the introduction of the students to issues unique to patient record systems. These include record security, unique patient identifiers, and the use of controlled vocabularies. A particularly challenging aspect of the development of this program was allowing for student entry of controlled vocabulary terms. There were four goals we wished to achieve: students should be able to find the terms they are looking for; once a term has been found, it should be easy to find contextually related terms; it should be easy to determine that a sought-for term is not in the vocabulary; and the structure of the vocabulary should be dynamically altered by contextual information to allow its use for a variety of purposes. We chose a semantic network for our vocabulary structure. Within the processing power of the equipment we were working with, we achieved our goals. This paper will describe the development of the vocabulary, the design of the CaseLog program, and the feedback from student users of the program. PMID:8130581

  3. Computing Your Way through Science.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Allen, Denise

    1994-01-01

    Reviews three computer software programs focusing on teaching science to middle school students: (1) Encarta, a multimedia encyclopedia; (2) Gizmos and Gadgets, which allows students to explore physical science principles; and (3) BodyScope, which allows students to examine the systems of the human body. (BB)

  4. Computers in medical education 1: evaluation of a problem-orientated learning package.

    PubMed

    Devitt, P; Palmer, E

    1998-04-01

    A computer-based learning package has been developed, aimed at expanding students' knowledge base, as well as improving data-handling abilities and clinical problem-solving skills. The program was evaluated by monitoring its use by students, canvassing users' opinions and measuring its effectiveness as a learning tool compared to tutorials on the same material. Evaluation was undertaken using three methods: initially, by a questionnaire on computers as a learning tool and the applicability of the content: second, through monitoring by the computer of student use, decisions and performance; finally, through pre- and post-test assessment of fifth-year students who either used a computer package or attended a tutorial on equivalent material. Most students provided positive comments on the learning material and expressed a willingness to see computer-aided learning (CAL) introduced into the curriculum. Over a 3-month period, 26 modules in the program were used on 1246 occasions. Objective measurement showed a significant gain in knowledge, data handling and problem-solving skills. Computer-aided learning is a valuable learning resource that deserves better attention in medical education. When used appropriately, the computer can be an effective learning resource, not only for the delivery of knowledge. but also to help students develop their problem-solving skills.

  5. Index to Computer Assisted Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lekan, Helen A., Ed.

    The computer assisted instruction (CAI) programs and projects described in this index are listed by subject matter. The index gives the program name, author, source, description, prerequisites, level of instruction, type of student, average completion time, logic and program, purpose for which program was designed, supplementary…

  6. Computer-assisted instruction in programming: AID

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Friend, J.; Atkinson, R. C.

    1971-01-01

    Lessons for training students on how to program and operate computers to and AID language are given. The course consists of a set of 50 lessons, plus summaries, reviews, tests, and extra credit problems. No prior knowledge is needed for the course, the only requirement being a strong background in algebra. A student manual, which includes instruction for operating the instructional program and a glossary of terms used in the course, is included in the appendices.

  7. Analogy Mapping Development for Learning Programming

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sukamto, R. A.; Prabawa, H. W.; Kurniawati, S.

    2017-02-01

    Programming skill is an important skill for computer science students, whereas nowadays, there many computer science students are lack of skills and information technology knowledges in Indonesia. This is contrary with the implementation of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) since the end of 2015 which is the qualified worker needed. This study provided an effort for nailing programming skills by mapping program code to visual analogies as learning media. The developed media was based on state machine and compiler principle and was implemented in C programming language. The state of every basic condition in programming were successful determined as analogy visualization.

  8. SBL-Online: Implementing Studio-Based Learning Techniques in an Online Introductory Programming Course to Address Common Programming Errors and Misconceptions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Polo, Blanca J.

    2013-01-01

    Much research has been done in regards to student programming errors, online education and studio-based learning (SBL) in computer science education. This study furthers this area by bringing together this knowledge and applying it to proactively help students overcome impasses caused by common student programming errors. This project proposes a…

  9. A Computer-Assisted Instruction Unit on Diffusion and Osmosis with a Conceptual Change Design.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jensen, Murray S.; And Others

    1996-01-01

    Describes the development, use, and evaluation of the "Osmosis Program" as a teaching tool to elicit and challenge college students' understanding about diffusion and osmosis. Results showed students using the program performed better on a diffusion and osmosis assessment test than students not using the program. (Author/MKR)

  10. Beyond Introductory Programming: Success Factors for Advanced Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hoskey, Arthur; Maurino, Paula San Millan

    2011-01-01

    Numerous studies document high drop-out and failure rates for students in computer programming classes. Studies show that even when some students pass programming classes, they still do not know how to program. Many factors have been considered to explain this problem including gender, age, prior programming experience, major, math background,…

  11. Resources and Approaches for Teaching Quantitative and Computational Skills in the Geosciences and Allied Fields

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Orr, C. H.; Mcfadden, R. R.; Manduca, C. A.; Kempler, L. A.

    2016-12-01

    Teaching with data, simulations, and models in the geosciences can increase many facets of student success in the classroom, and in the workforce. Teaching undergraduates about programming and improving students' quantitative and computational skills expands their perception of Geoscience beyond field-based studies. Processing data and developing quantitative models are critically important for Geoscience students. Students need to be able to perform calculations, analyze data, create numerical models and visualizations, and more deeply understand complex systems—all essential aspects of modern science. These skills require students to have comfort and skill with languages and tools such as MATLAB. To achieve comfort and skill, computational and quantitative thinking must build over a 4-year degree program across courses and disciplines. However, in courses focused on Geoscience content it can be challenging to get students comfortable with using computational methods to answers Geoscience questions. To help bridge this gap, we have partnered with MathWorks to develop two workshops focused on collecting and developing strategies and resources to help faculty teach students to incorporate data, simulations, and models into the curriculum at the course and program levels. We brought together faculty members from the sciences, including Geoscience and allied fields, who teach computation and quantitative thinking skills using MATLAB to build a resource collection for teaching. These materials, and the outcomes of the workshops are freely available on our website. The workshop outcomes include a collection of teaching activities, essays, and course descriptions that can help faculty incorporate computational skills at the course or program level. The teaching activities include in-class assignments, problem sets, labs, projects, and toolboxes. These activities range from programming assignments to creating and using models. The outcomes also include workshop syntheses that highlights best practices, a set of webpages to support teaching with software such as MATLAB, and an interest group actively discussing aspects these issues in Geoscience and allied fields. Learn more and view the resources at http://serc.carleton.edu/matlab_computation2016/index.html

  12. Computer Literacy and the Library: A New Connection.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fenske, Rachel F.

    1998-01-01

    Describes a program at Eastern Washington University that integrates library skills as a component of the English composition program, and is part of a computer-literacy program stemming from a general-education curriculum reform. Discusses program development and design, assessment of student learning, and effectiveness of the program. (LRW)

  13. The Road to Computer Literacy. Part V: Objectives and Activities for Grades 10-12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bitter, Gary

    1983-01-01

    Presents computer-oriented activities in computer awareness and programing for students in grades 10-12. Intended for use by teachers of all disciplines, activities include such topics as prediction, interpretation and generalization of data, computer systems, PASCAL and PILOT programing, sampling techniques, computer survival, invasion of…

  14. Information visualization courses for students with a computer science background.

    PubMed

    Kerren, Andreas

    2013-01-01

    Linnaeus University offers two master's courses in information visualization for computer science students with programming experience. This article briefly describes the syllabi, exercises, and practices developed for these courses.

  15. An investigation of the artifacts, outcomes, and processes of constructing computer games about environmental science in a fifth grade science classroom

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baytak, Ahmet

    Among educational researchers and practitioners, there is a growing interest in employing computer games for pedagogical purposes. The present research integrated a technology education class and a science class where 5 th graders learned about environmental issues by designing games that involved environmental concepts. The purposes of this study were to investigate how designing computer games affected the development of students' environmental knowledge, programming knowledge, environmental awareness and interest in computers. It also explored the nature of the artifacts developed and the types of knowledge represented therein. A case study (Yin, 2003) was employed within the context of a 5 th grade elementary science classroom. Fifth graders designed computer games about environmental issues to present to 2nd graders by using Scratch software. The analysis of this study was based on multiple data sources: students' pre- and post-test scores on environmental awareness, their environmental knowledge, their interest in computer science, and their game design. Included in the analyses were also data from students' computer games, participant observations, and structured interviews. The results of the study showed that students were able to successfully design functional games that represented their understanding of environment, even though the gain between pre- and post-environmental knowledge test and environmental awareness survey were minimal. The findings indicate that all students were able to use various game characteristics and programming concepts, but their prior experience with the design software affected their representations. The analyses of the interview transcriptions and games show that students improved their programming skills and that they wanted to do similar projects for other subject areas in the future. Observations showed that game design appeared to lead to knowledge-building, interaction and collaboration among students. This, in turn, encouraged students to test and improve their designs. Sharing the games, it was found, has both positive and negative effects on the students' game design process and the representation of students' understandings of the domain subject.

  16. Using Haptic and Auditory Interaction Tools to Engage Students with Visual Impairments in Robot Programming Activities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Howard, A. M.; Park, Chung Hyuk; Remy, S.

    2012-01-01

    The robotics field represents the integration of multiple facets of computer science and engineering. Robotics-based activities have been shown to encourage K-12 students to consider careers in computing and have even been adopted as part of core computer-science curriculum at a number of universities. Unfortunately, for students with visual…

  17. A qualitative study of student perspectives and experiences in an information technology education program

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choi, Heekyung

    2009-12-01

    The purpose of this study is to learn about students' perspectives of an undergraduate level information technology (IT) education program. The IT program is a recent effort to create a new educational opportunity for computing in college, with recognition that the recent IT developments have had a greater influence on various aspects of people's lives than ever. Students' perspectives are a necessary piece of information to develop this innovative IT education program into a sound educational opportunity. Data were gathered through qualitative in-depth interviews conducted with 28 undergraduate students, most of whom have taken one or more IT classes before. The interview data were analyzed using the grounded theory approach. The analysis found that college students perceived that they were very competent in dealing with IT primarily due to their continued exposure to computers since youth. However, this perceived competency was not very stable. Students felt that they did not have sufficient IT competency when technical skills of dealing with IT came to attention. They also felt so when comparing their IT competency with that of their peers, examining it in a class context, and confronting a transition from education to the real world. In spite of their preference for and confidence in self-guided learning, students wanted to receive a formal instruction in IT when they needed to learn something difficult, something that they were not very interested in, and something important for their future lives. They also expressed a desire to gain a comprehensive understanding of computers without needing to learn fundamental computing principles. Students' various interests in IT education were dispersed around learning practical technical skills and understanding social implications of IT. Many participants' focus was a mix of the two factors, which was often expressed as an area that dealt with "how humans and computers interact." This blended interest suggested a potential defining characteristic for IT education. Students' motivations for pursuing IT education ranged from their passion to some practical considerations. The majority of students expressed mixed motivations, often more strongly inclined to practicality. This finding implied that students' practical considerations as well as their pure interests were an important factor to consider in administering an IT program. Participants found that the primary value of the IT program was that it incorporated technological and social topics which had not been well connected previously. Yet, balancing the technical and non-technical components in the curriculum also proved to be the most controversial aspect. Students perceived that the weaknesses of the IT program were also associated with its interdisciplinary nature. Students also viewed that the topics in the IT program were more closely related to many real world problems than the curricula of typical college education programs. Finally, the analysis revealed that students determined the value of the IT minor program in relation to their majors and career interests. Students took the IT minor to supplement their majors, in terras of their interests in developing their careers beyond formal education. Overall, this investigation showed that students perceived this broad-based education program for IT as an intermediate field that filled a significant niche in college education caused by the recent technological innovations: between technical and social, between school and everyday life, and between formal education and the "real world." The results have practical implications for the development of IT programs in college and for future research directions.

  18. Use of the computer for research on student thinking in physics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grayson, Diane J.; McDermott, Lillian C.

    1996-05-01

    This paper describes the use of the computer-based interview as a research technique for investigating how students think about physics. Two computer programs provide the context: one intended for instruction, the other for research. The one designed for use as an instructional aid displays the motion of a ball rolling along a track that has level and inclined segments. The associated motion graphs are also shown. The other program, which was expressly designed for use in research, is based on the simulated motion of a modified Atwood's machine. The programs require students to predict the effect of the initial conditions and system parameters on the motion or on a graph of the motion. The motion that would actually occur is then displayed. The investigation focuses on the reasoning used by the students as they try to resolve discrepancies between their predictions and observations.

  19. An Algebra-Based Introductory Computational Neuroscience Course with Lab.

    PubMed

    Fink, Christian G

    2017-01-01

    A course in computational neuroscience has been developed at Ohio Wesleyan University which requires no previous experience with calculus or computer programming, and which exposes students to theoretical models of neural information processing and techniques for analyzing neural data. The exploration of theoretical models of neural processes is conducted in the classroom portion of the course, while data analysis techniques are covered in lab. Students learn to program in MATLAB and are offered the opportunity to conclude the course with a final project in which they explore a topic of their choice within computational neuroscience. Results from a questionnaire administered at the beginning and end of the course indicate significant gains in student facility with core concepts in computational neuroscience, as well as with analysis techniques applied to neural data.

  20. Basic BASIC; An Introduction to Computer Programming in BASIC Language.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Coan, James S.

    With the increasing availability of computer access through remote terminals and time sharing, more and more schools and colleges are able to introduce programing to substantial numbers of students. This book is an attempt to incorporate computer programming, using BASIC language, and the teaching of mathematics. The general approach of the book…

  1. A Study: Exploring the Feasibility of Developing a Computer Science Online Degree Program at Tuskegee University

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Buckley, Ingrid A.; Narang, Hira

    2014-01-01

    This paper investigates the feasibility of developing an online degree for a computer science and information technology degree programs. Our motivation is to increase access to quality education with the aim of stimulating growth, attracting new students, and retaining our current student body. A survey was conducted of CS/IT online degrees which…

  2. Computer Aided Instruction and Problem Solving in the Teaching of Oral Diagnosis.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Spencer, Judson; Gobetti, John P.

    A computer-assisted instructional (CAI) program is being used at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry to aid in the teaching of oral diagnosis to dental students. The program is designed to simulate a real life situation--i.e., the diagnosis of patient illness-which would not be otherwise available to the student and to demonstrate to…

  3. A Motivation Guided Holistic Rehabilitation of the First Programming Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nikula, Uolevi; Gotel, Orlena; Kasurinen, Jussi

    2011-01-01

    It has been estimated that more than two million students started computing studies in 1999 and 650,000 of them either dropped or failed their first programming course. For the individual student, dropping such a course can distract from the completion of later courses in a computing curriculum and may even result in changing their course of study…

  4. The Use and Benefits of Computer Aided Learning in the Assessment of the Laboratory Exercise "Enzyme Induction in Escherichia coli".

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pamula, F.; And Others

    1995-01-01

    Describes an interactive computer program written to provide accurate and immediate feedback to students while they are processing experimental data. Discusses the problems inherent in laboratory courses that led to the development of this program. Advantages of the software include allowing students to work at their own pace in a nonthreatening…

  5. One-to-One Computing in Public Schools: Lessons from "Laptops for All" Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Abell Foundation, 2008

    2008-01-01

    The basic tenet of one-to-one computing is that the student and teacher have Internet-connected, wireless computing devices in the classroom and optimally at home as well. Also known as "ubiquitous computing," this strategy assumes that every teacher and student has her own computing device and obviates the need for moving classes to…

  6. The preparedness level of final year medical students for an adequate medical approach to emergency cases: computer-based medical education in emergency medicine

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background We aimed to observe the preparedness level of final year medical students in approaching emergencies by computer-based simulation training and evaluate the efficacy of the program. Methods A computer-based prototype simulation program (Lsim), designed by researchers from the medical education and computer science departments, was used to present virtual cases for medical learning. Fifty-four final year medical students from Ondokuz Mayis University School of Medicine attended an education program on June 20, 2012 and were trained with Lsim. Volunteer attendants completed a pre-test and post-test exam at the beginning and end of the course, respectively, on the same day. Results Twenty-nine of the 54 students who attended the course accepted to take the pre-test and post-test exams; 58.6% (n = 17) were female. In 10 emergency medical cases, an average of 3.9 correct medical approaches were performed in the pre-test and an average of 9.6 correct medical approaches were performed in the post-test (t = 17.18, P = 0.006). Conclusions This study’s results showed that the readiness level of students for an adequate medical approach to emergency cases was very low. Computer-based training could help in the adequate approach of students to various emergency cases. PMID:24386919

  7. Toward using games to teach fundamental computer science concepts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Edgington, Jeffrey Michael

    Video and computer games have become an important area of study in the field of education. Games have been designed to teach mathematics, physics, raise social awareness, teach history and geography, and train soldiers in the military. Recent work has created computer games for teaching computer programming and understanding basic algorithms. We present an investigation where computer games are used to teach two fundamental computer science concepts: boolean expressions and recursion. The games are intended to teach the concepts and not how to implement them in a programming language. For this investigation, two computer games were created. One is designed to teach basic boolean expressions and operators and the other to teach fundamental concepts of recursion. We describe the design and implementation of both games. We evaluate the effectiveness of these games using before and after surveys. The surveys were designed to ascertain basic understanding, attitudes and beliefs regarding the concepts. The boolean game was evaluated with local high school students and students in a college level introductory computer science course. The recursion game was evaluated with students in a college level introductory computer science course. We present the analysis of the collected survey information for both games. This analysis shows a significant positive change in student attitude towards recursion and modest gains in student learning outcomes for both topics.

  8. SYRIT Computer School Systems Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Maldonado, Carmen

    The 1991-92 and 1993-94 audit for SYRIT Computer School Systems revealed noncompliance of appropriate law and regulations in certifying students for Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) awards. SYRIT was overpaid $2,817,394 because school officials incorrectly certified student eligibility. The audit also discovered that students graduated and were…

  9. Grid Computing Education Support

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Steven Crumb

    2008-01-15

    The GGF Student Scholar program enabled GGF the opportunity to bring over sixty qualified graduate and under-graduate students with interests in grid technologies to its three annual events over the three-year program.

  10. The Impact of Computer-Assisted Instruction on Mathematics Achievement of Underachieving Fifth-Grade Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bruce-Simmons, Christine

    2013-01-01

    This study examined the impact of computer-assisted instruction on the mathematics performance of underachieving fifth-grade students in a rural school district in South Carolina. The instructional technology program ([IF) is South Carolina's response to addressing the needs of its young, struggling math students. The 449 fifth-grade students in…

  11. CAI-BASIC: A Program to Teach the Programming Language BASIC.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barry, Thomas Anthony

    A computer-assisted instruction (CAI) program was designed which fulfills the objectives of teaching a simple programing language, interpreting student responses, and executing and editing student programs. The CAI-BASIC program is written in FORTRAN IV and executes on IBM-2741 terminals while running under a time-sharing system on an IBM-360-70…

  12. Computer Applications in Teaching and Learning.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Halley, Fred S.; And Others

    Some examples of the usage of computers in teaching and learning are examination generation, automatic exam grading, student tracking, problem generation, computational examination generators, program packages, simulation, and programing skills for problem solving. These applications are non-trivial and do fulfill the basic assumptions necessary…

  13. Cheyney University Curriculum and Infrastructure Enhamcement in STEM

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Eva, Sakkar Ara

    Cheyney University is the oldest historically Black educational institution in America. Initially established as a “normal” school emphasizing the matriculation of educators, Cheyney has become a comprehensive university, one of 14 state universities comprising the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education (PASSHE). Cheyney University graduates still become teachers, but they also enter such fields as journalism, medicine, science, mathematics, law, communication and government. Cheyney University is a small state owned HBCU with very limited resource. At present the university has about a thousand students with 15% in STEM. The CUCIES II grant made significant contribution in saving the computer sciencemore » program from being a discontinued program in the university. The grant enabled the university to hire a temporary faculty to teach in and update the computer science program. The program is enhanced with three tracks; cyber security, human computer interaction and general. The updated and enhanced computer science program will prepare professionals in the area of computer science with the knowledge, skills, and professional ethic needed for the current market. The new curriculum was developed for a professional profile that would focus on the technologies and techniques currently used in the industry. With faculty on board, the university worked with the department to bring back the computer science program from moratorium. Once in the path of being discontinued and loosing students, the program is now growing. Currently the student number has increased from 12 to 30. University is currently in the process of hiring a tenure track faculty in the computer science program. Another product of the grant is the proposal for introductory course in nanotechnology. The course is intended to generate interest in the nanotechnology field. The Natural and Applied Science department that houses all of the STEM programs in Cheyney University, is currently working to bring back environmental science program from moratorium. The university has been working to improve minority participation in STEM and made significant stride in terms of progressing students toward graduate programs and into professoriate track. This success is due to faculty mentors who work closely with students to guiding them through the application processes for research internship and graduate programs; it is also due to the university forming collaborative agreements with research intensive institutions, federal and state agencies and industry. The grant assisted in recruiting and retaining students in STEM by offering tuition scholarship, research scholarship and travel awards. Faculty professional development was supported by the grant by funding travel to conferences, meetings and webinar. As many HBCU Cheyney University is also trying to do more with less. As the STEM programs are inherently expensive, these are the ones that suffer more when resources are scarce. One of the goals of Cheyney University strategic plan is to strengthen STEM programs that is coherent with the critical skill need of Department of Energy. All of the Cheyney University STEM programs are now located in the new science building funded by Pennsylvania state.« less

  14. Attitude, Gender and Achievement in Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baser, Mustafa

    2013-01-01

    The aim of this research was to explore the relationship among students' attitudes toward programming, gender and academic achievement in programming. The scale used for measuring students' attitudes toward programming was developed by the researcher and consisted of 35 five-point Likert type items in four subscales. The scale was administered to…

  15. Effective Compiler Error Message Enhancement for Novice Programming Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Becker, Brett A.; Glanville, Graham; Iwashima, Ricardo; McDonnell, Claire; Goslin, Kyle; Mooney, Catherine

    2016-01-01

    Programming is an essential skill that many computing students are expected to master. However, programming can be difficult to learn. Successfully interpreting compiler error messages (CEMs) is crucial for correcting errors and progressing toward success in programming. Yet these messages are often difficult to understand and pose a barrier to…

  16. Persistence of elementary programming skills

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bennedsen, Jens; Caspersen, Michael E.

    2012-06-01

    Programming is recognised as one of seven grand challenges in computing education and attracts much attention in computing education research. Most research in the area concerns teaching methods, educational technology and student understanding/misconceptions. Typically, evaluation of learning outcome takes place during or immediately following the educational activity. In this research, we conduct a qualitative investigation of sustainability of programming competence by studying the effect of recalling programming competence long time after the educational activity has taken place. Our population consists of 10 students who have taken an introductory object-oriented programming course 3, 15 or 27 months prior to our study. None of the students have been exposed to programming in the intervening period. As expected, our research shows that syntactical issues in general hinder immediate programming productivity, but more interestingly it also indicate that a tiny retraining activity and simple guidelines is enough to recall programming competence and overcome syntactical issues.

  17. Alliance for Computational Science Collaboration HBCU Partnership at Fisk University. Final Report 2001

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Collins, W. E.

    2004-08-16

    Computational Science plays a big role in research and development in mathematics, science, engineering and biomedical disciplines. The Alliance for Computational Science Collaboration (ACSC) has the goal of training African-American and other minority scientists in the computational science field for eventual employment with the Department of Energy (DOE). The involvements of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in the Alliance provide avenues for producing future DOE African-American scientists. Fisk University has been participating in this program through grants from the DOE. The DOE grant supported computational science activities at Fisk University. The research areas included energy related projects, distributed computing,more » visualization of scientific systems and biomedical computing. Students' involvement in computational science research included undergraduate summer research at Oak Ridge National Lab, on-campus research involving the participation of undergraduates, participation of undergraduate and faculty members in workshops, and mentoring of students. These activities enhanced research and education in computational science, thereby adding to Fisk University's spectrum of research and educational capabilities. Among the successes of the computational science activities are the acceptance of three undergraduate students to graduate schools with full scholarships beginning fall 2002 (one for master degree program and two for Doctoral degree program).« less

  18. Payroll. Computer Module for Use in a Mathematics Laboratory Setting.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barker, Karen; And Others

    This is one of a series of computer modules designed for use by secondary students who have access to a computer. The module, designed to help students understand various aspects of payroll calculation, includes a statement of objectives, a time schedule, a list of materials, an outline for each section, and several computer programs. (MK)

  19. Gender Differences in Computer Use and Attitudes on a Ubiquitous Computing Campus.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McCoy, Leah P.; Heafner, Tina L.; Burdick, Matthew G.; Nagle, Laura M.

    As colleges and universities consider various options for wide scale "computerization," one southern liberal arts university has instituted a technology program that insures that all students have equal access to laptop computers. At this university, each student is issued his or her own IBM ThinkPad, and activities involving this computer are…

  20. The Effects of Computer Assisted English Instruction on High School Preparatory Students' Attitudes towards Computers and English

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ates, Alev; Altunay, Ugur; Altun, Eralp

    2006-01-01

    The aim of this research was to discern the effects of computer assisted English instruction on English language preparatory students' attitudes towards computers and English in a Turkish-medium high school with an intensive English program. A quasi-experimental time series research design, also called "before-after" or "repeated…

  1. Computer Training for Entrepreneurial Meteorologists.

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Koval, Joseph P.; Young, George S.

    2001-05-01

    Computer applications of increasing diversity form a growing part of the undergraduate education of meteorologists in the early twenty-first century. The advent of the Internet economy, as well as a waning demand for traditional forecasters brought about by better numerical models and statistical forecasting techniques has greatly increased the need for operational and commercial meteorologists to acquire computer skills beyond the traditional techniques of numerical analysis and applied statistics. Specifically, students with the skills to develop data distribution products are in high demand in the private sector job market. Meeting these demands requires greater breadth, depth, and efficiency in computer instruction. The authors suggest that computer instruction for undergraduate meteorologists should include three key elements: a data distribution focus, emphasis on the techniques required to learn computer programming on an as-needed basis, and a project orientation to promote management skills and support student morale. In an exploration of this approach, the authors have reinvented the Applications of Computers to Meteorology course in the Department of Meteorology at The Pennsylvania State University to teach computer programming within the framework of an Internet product development cycle. Because the computer skills required for data distribution programming change rapidly, specific languages are valuable for only a limited time. A key goal of this course was therefore to help students learn how to retrain efficiently as technologies evolve. The crux of the course was a semester-long project during which students developed an Internet data distribution product. As project management skills are also important in the job market, the course teamed students in groups of four for this product development project. The success, failures, and lessons learned from this experiment are discussed and conclusions drawn concerning undergraduate instructional methods for computer applications in meteorology.

  2. Computer Aided Self-Instruction Training with Impulsive Deaf Students and Learning Disabled Students: A Study on Teaching Reflective Thought. Education and Technology Series.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Campbell, Donald S.; And Others

    Two studies examined the effectiveness of self-instruction training via a specially developed computer program to modify the impulsive problem-solving behavior of 16 deaf and 10 learning disabled (aphasic) adolescents attending two special residential schools in Canada. In the control condition, students learned the Apple LOGO computing language…

  3. Tracking Students' Cognitive Processes during Program Debugging--An Eye-Movement Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lin, Yu-Tzu; Wu, Cheng-Chih; Hou, Ting-Yun; Lin, Yu-Chih; Yang, Fang-Ying; Chang, Chia-Hu

    2016-01-01

    This study explores students' cognitive processes while debugging programs by using an eye tracker. Students' eye movements during debugging were recorded by an eye tracker to investigate whether and how high- and low-performance students act differently during debugging. Thirty-eight computer science undergraduates were asked to debug two C…

  4. Implementing and Assessing Computational Modeling in Introductory Mechanics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Caballero, Marcos D.; Kohlmyer, Matthew A.; Schatz, Michael F.

    2012-01-01

    Students taking introductory physics are rarely exposed to computational modeling. In a one-semester large lecture introductory calculus-based mechanics course at Georgia Tech, students learned to solve physics problems using the VPython programming environment. During the term, 1357 students in this course solved a suite of 14 computational…

  5. A Longitudinal Evaluation of Computer-Assisted Instruction on Contraception for College Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Reis, Janet; Tymchyshyn, Patricia

    1992-01-01

    Assessed changes in contraceptive knowledge of 58 white female undergraduate students following computer-assisted instruction program on contraception. At six-month follow-up, students evidenced knowledge gains on duration of pill use, rationale for triphasics and biphasics, appropriate contingencies for missing two days of pill, danger signs…

  6. Biology Students Building Computer Simulations Using StarLogo TNG

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, V. Anne; Duncan, Ishbel

    2011-01-01

    Confidence is an important issue for biology students in handling computational concepts. This paper describes a practical in which honours-level bioscience students simulate complex animal behaviour using StarLogo TNG, a freely-available graphical programming environment. The practical consists of two sessions, the first of which guides students…

  7. ThinkerTools. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    What Works Clearinghouse, 2012

    2012-01-01

    "ThinkerTools" is a computer-based program that aims to develop students' understanding of physics and scientific modeling. The program is composed of two curricula for middle school students, "ThinkerTools Inquiry" and "Model-Enhanced ThinkerTools". "ThinkerTools Inquiry" allows students to explore the…

  8. Electronic Manipulation Endangers Credibility.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schaub, Laura

    1998-01-01

    Argues that technological advances with digital photo enhancement computer programs raise serious questions concerning ethics in student publications, and that instructors and advisers have an obligation to teach students about the appropriate, ethical use of these programs. Outlines specific issues and reminds students that it is wrong to enhance…

  9. Index to Computer Based Learning.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hoye, Robert E., Ed.; Wang, Anastasia C., Ed.

    The computer-based programs and projects described in this index are listed under 98 different subject matter fields. Descrptions of programs include information on: subject field, program name and number, author, source, the program's curriculum content, prerequisites, level of instruction, type of student for which it is intended, total hours of…

  10. Introduction to Computing Course Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hawaii State Dept. of Education, Honolulu. Office of Instructional Services.

    Developed to aid intermediate-level teachers and principals in initiating and developing computer literacy programs for their students, this document is a guide for the development of a one-semester course--Introduction to Computing--for the seventh and eighth grades. The course is designed to provide opportunities for students to develop computer…

  11. Tutor Training in Computer Science: Tutor Opinions and Student Results.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carbone, Angela; Mitchell, Ian

    Edproj, a project team of faculty from the departments of computer science, software development and education at Monash University (Australia) investigated the quality of teaching and student learning and understanding in the computer science and software development departments. Edproj's research led to the development of a training program to…

  12. Application of Computer Graphics to Graphing in Algebra and Trigonometry. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Morris, J. Richard

    This project was designed to improve the graphing competency of students in elementary algebra, intermediate algebra, and trigonometry courses at Virginia Commonwealth University. Computer graphics programs were designed using an Apple II Plus computer and implemented using Pascal. The software package is interactive and gives students control…

  13. Evaluation of the Nature-Computer Camp: Summer 1993.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Negero, Arega

    The purpose of the Nature Computer Camp (NCC) is to provide sixth-graders in District of Columbia Public Schools an opportunity to explore and appreciate nature in its natural setting. The program also aspires to develop computer proficiency, enhance students' social and interpersonal skills, stimulate group interaction, and strengthen students'…

  14. Poems by Computer: Introducing Poetry in a High-Tech Society.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Styne, Marlys M.

    Poetry was used in a college English class to teach figurative language, connotation, denotation, and the need for close attention to vocabulary. However, students were often bored by traditional poetry. Using computer programs like "Compupoem,""Poetrywriter,""Lifesongs," and "Haikuku," students were introduced to computer poetry and created their…

  15. Notebook Computers as Note-Takers for Handicapped Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    James, Veronica; Hammersley, Michael

    1993-01-01

    Describes a study in New South Wales (Australia) that used cable-linked notebook computers as a notetaking system for hearing-impaired students. The Phones for the Deaf Program is explained, and benefits of the notebook computer system are discussed, including greater efficiency, less intrusiveness, and more complete classroom participation. (LRW)

  16. Introductory Computer Programming Course Teaching Improvement Using Immersion Language, Extreme Programming, and Education Theories

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Velez-Rubio, Miguel

    2013-01-01

    Teaching computer programming to freshmen students in Computer Sciences and other Information Technology areas has been identified as a complex activity. Different approaches have been studied looking for the best one that could help to improve this teaching process. A proposed approach was implemented which is based in the language immersion…

  17. Where Do Student Outcomes Begin? Developing Professional and Personal Management Skills as a Strategy for Student Success in the First Computing Course and Beyond

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Humpherys, Sean; Babb, Jeffry; Abdullat, Amjad

    2015-01-01

    Through the annual ABET assessment process, Computer Information Systems faculty in the College of Business at a regional institution were able to diagnose problems regarding students not satisfying our program's Student Outcomes. Often, the impediments to student success were not technical in nature and prompted faculty to consider non-technical…

  18. Computer ethics: A capstone course

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fisher, T.G.; Abunawass, A.M.

    1994-12-31

    This paper presents a capstone course on computer ethics required for all computer science majors in our program. The course was designed to encourage students to evaluate their own personal value systems in terms of the established values in computer science as represented by the ACM Code of Ethics. The structure, activities, and topics of the course as well as assessment of the students are presented. Observations on various course components and student evaluations of the course are also presented.

  19. Computer simulations in the high school: students' cognitive stages, science process skills and academic achievement in microbiology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huppert, J.; Michal Lomask, S.; Lazarowitz, R.

    2002-08-01

    Computer-assisted learning, including simulated experiments, has great potential to address the problem solving process which is a complex activity. It requires a highly structured approach in order to understand the use of simulations as an instructional device. This study is based on a computer simulation program, 'The Growth Curve of Microorganisms', which required tenth grade biology students to use problem solving skills whilst simultaneously manipulating three independent variables in one simulated experiment. The aims were to investigate the computer simulation's impact on students' academic achievement and on their mastery of science process skills in relation to their cognitive stages. The results indicate that the concrete and transition operational students in the experimental group achieved significantly higher academic achievement than their counterparts in the control group. The higher the cognitive operational stage, the higher students' achievement was, except in the control group where students in the concrete and transition operational stages did not differ. Girls achieved equally with the boys in the experimental group. Students' academic achievement may indicate the potential impact a computer simulation program can have, enabling students with low reasoning abilities to cope successfully with learning concepts and principles in science which require high cognitive skills.

  20. Student science enrichment training program

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sandhu, S.S.

    1994-08-01

    This is a report on the Student Science Enrichment Training Program, with special emphasis on chemical and computer science fields. The residential summer session was held at the campus of Claflin College, Orangeburg, SC, for six weeks during 1993 summer, to run concomitantly with the college`s summer school. Fifty participants selected for this program, included high school sophomores, juniors and seniors. The students came from rural South Carolina and adjoining states which, presently, have limited science and computer science facilities. The program focused on high ability minority students, with high potential for science engineering and mathematical careers. The major objectivemore » was to increase the pool of well qualified college entering minority students who would elect to go into science, engineering and mathematical careers. The Division of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and engineering at Claflin College received major benefits from this program as it helped them to expand the Departments of Chemistry, Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science as a result of additional enrollment. It also established an expanded pool of well qualified minority science and mathematics graduates, which were recruited by the federal agencies and private corporations, visiting Claflin College Campus. Department of Energy`s relationship with Claflin College increased the public awareness of energy related job opportunities in the public and private sectors.« less

  1. Bytes and Bugs: Integrating Computer Programming with Bacteria Identification.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Danciger, Michael

    1986-01-01

    By using a computer program to identify bacteria, students sharpen their analytical skills and gain familiarity with procedures used in laboratories outside the university. Although it is ideal for identifying a bacterium, the program can be adapted to many other disciplines. (Author)

  2. Computer Literacy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    San Marcos Unified School District, CA.

    THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THIS DOCUMENT: After viewing many computer-literacy programs, we believe San Marcos Junior High School has developed a unique program which will truly develop computer literacy. Our hope is to give all students a comprehensive look at computers as they go through their two years here. They will not only learn the…

  3. Learning COMCAT (Computer Output Microform Catalog): Library Training Program for Foreign Students at New York Institute of Technology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chiang, Ching-hsin

    This thesis reports on the designer's plans and experiences in carrying out the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of a project, the purpose of which was to develop a training program that would enable foreign students at the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) to use the Computer Output Microform Catalog (COMCAT) and to…

  4. Evander Childs High School Computer Literacy and Word Processing Skills for Bilingual Students 1984-1985.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New York City Board of Education, Brooklyn. Office of Educational Assessment.

    In 1984-85, the Computer Literacy and Word Processing Program for Bilingual Students at Evander Childs High School (Bronx, New York) was in the first year of a two-year, Title VII funding cycle. The major goal of the program is to improve the educational achievement and employability skills of 100 Hispanic, limited English proficient (LEP) student…

  5. Instructional Variables in Meaningful Learning of Computer Programming.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mayer, Richard E.

    Some 120 undergraduate students participated in experiments to learn how novice computer programers learn to interact with the computer. Two instructional booklets were used: A "rule" booklet consisted of definitions and examples of seven modified FORTRAN statements and appropriate grammar rules; the "model" booklet was…

  6. Computers and Media Centers--A Winning Combination.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Graf, Nancy

    1984-01-01

    Profile of the computer program offered by the library/media center at Chief Joseph Junior High School in Richland, Washington, highlights program background, operator's licensing procedure, the trainer license, assistance from high school students, need for more computers, handling of software, and helpful hints. (EJS)

  7. STAIRSTEP -- a research-oriented program for undergraduate students at Lamar University

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bahrim, Cristian

    2011-03-01

    The relative low number of undergraduate STEM students in many science disciplines, and in particular in physics, represents a major concern for our faculty and the administration at Lamar University. Therefore, a collaborative effort between several science programs, including computer science, chemistry, geology, mathematics and physics was set up with the goal of increasing the number of science majors and to minimize the retention rate. Lamar's Student Advancing through Involvement in Research Student Talent Expansion Program (STAIRSTEP) is a NSF-DUE sponsored program designed to motivate STEM students to graduate with a science degree from one of these five disciplines by involving them in state-of-the-art research projects and various outreach activities organized on-campus or in road shows at the secondary and high schools. The physics program offers hands-on experience in optics, such as computer-based experiments for studying the diffraction and interference of light incident on nettings or electronic wave packets incident on crystals, with applications in optical imaging, electron microscopy, and crystallography. The impact of the various activities done in STAIRSTEP on our Physics Program will be discussed.

  8. Using Accelerated Reader with ESL Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hamilton, Betty

    1997-01-01

    Describes the use of Accelerated Reader, a computer program that instantly provides scored tests on a variety of books read by high school ESL (English as a Second Language) students as free voluntary reading. Topics include reading improvement programs, including writing assignments; and changes in students' reading habits. (LRW)

  9. Well-planning programs give students field-like experience

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sifferman, T.R.; Chapman, L.

    1983-01-01

    The University of Tulsa recently was given a package of computer well planning and drilling programs that will enable petroleum engineering students to gain valuable experience in designing well programs while still in school. Comprehensive homework assignments are now given in areas of drilling fluids programing, hydraulics, directional wells and surveying. Additional programs are scheduled for next semester.

  10. Selecting Software for Students with Learning and Other Disabilities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Marino, Matthew T.; Tsurusaki, Blakely K.; Basham, James D.

    2011-01-01

    Have you ever bought a computer program that you thought would be great for your struggling students, only to find that it did not work on your school computers, or that your students found it difficult to use? Selecting science software for students with learning and other disabilities can be a challenge. This Idea Bank provides a list of…

  11. Transforming an Introductory Programming Course: From Lectures to Active Learning via Wireless Laptops

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barak, Miri; Harward, Judson; Kocur, George; Lerman, Steven

    2007-08-01

    Within the framework of MIT's course 1.00: Introduction to Computers and Engineering Problem Solving, this paper describes an innovative project entitled: Studio 1.00 that integrates lectures with in-class demonstrations, active learning sessions, and on-task feedback, through the use of wireless laptop computers. This paper also describes a related evaluation study that investigated the effectiveness of different instructional strategies, comparing traditional teaching with two models of the studio format. Students' learning outcomes, specifically, their final grades and conceptual understanding of computational methods and programming, were examined. Findings indicated that Studio-1.00, in both its extensive- and partial-active learning modes, enhanced students' learning outcomes in Java programming. Comparing to the traditional courses, more students in the studio courses received "A" as their final grade and less failed. Moreover, students who regularly attended the active learning sessions were able to conceptualize programming principles better than their peers. We have also found two weaknesses in the teaching format of Studio-1.00 that can guide future versions of the course.

  12. Effects of Intelligent Computer-Generated Interactive Mathematics Programs on Students' Achievement and Affective Domain

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wendel, Holly Marie

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship each of the mathematics web-based programs, MyMathLab and Assessments and Learning in Knowledge Spaces (ALEKS), has with students' mathematics achievement. In addition, the study examined the relationship between students' affective domain and the type of program as well as student…

  13. The Berry Informational Technology (B.I.T.S.) Student Work Program: An Effective Environment for Collaborative Learning, Leadership, Technological Training, and Certification.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cornelius, Amy; Macaluso, Paul

    The Berry Informational Technology (B.I.T.S.) program at Berry College (Georgia) is an apprenticeship opportunity associated with student work. The program gives students the opportunity to seek technological training in areas, such as building computer systems, trouble-shooting, networking, Web development, and user and technical support. In…

  14. Does Like Seek Like?: The Formation of Working Groups in a Programming Project

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sanou Gozalo, Eduard; Hernández-Fernández, Antoni; Arias, Marta; Ferrer-i-Cancho, Ramon

    2017-01-01

    In a course of the degree of computer science, the programming project has changed from individual to teamed work, tentatively in couples (pair programming). Students have full freedom to team up with minimum intervention from teachers. The analysis of the working groups made indicates that students do not tend to associate with students with a…

  15. Additional Support for the Information Systems Analyst Exam as a Valid Program Assessment Tool

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carpenter, Donald A.; Snyder, Johnny; Slauson, Gayla Jo; Bridge, Morgan K.

    2011-01-01

    This paper presents a statistical analysis to support the notion that the Information Systems Analyst (ISA) exam can be used as a program assessment tool in addition to measuring student performance. It compares ISA exam scores earned by students in one particular Computer Information Systems program with scores earned by the same students on the…

  16. Emergency medicine clerkship encounter and procedure logging using handheld computers.

    PubMed

    Penciner, Rick; Siddiqui, Sanam; Lee, Shirley

    2007-08-01

    Tracking medical student clinical encounters is now an accreditation requirement of medical schools. The use of handheld computers for electronic logging is emerging as a strategy to achieve this. To evaluate the technical feasibility and student satisfaction of a novel electronic logging and feedback program using handheld computers in the emergency department. This was a survey study of fourth-year medical student satisfaction with the use of their handheld computers for electronic logging of patient encounters and procedures. The authors also included an analysis of this technology. Forty-six students participated in this pilot project, logging a total of 2,930 encounters. Students used the logs an average of 7.6 shifts per rotation, logging an average of 8.3 patients per shift. Twenty-nine students (63%) responded to the survey. Students generally found it easy to complete each encounter (69%) and easy to synchronize their handheld computer with the central server (83%). However, half the students (49%) never viewed the feedback Web site and most (79%) never reviewed their logs with their preceptors. Overall, only 17% found the logging program beneficial as a learning tool. Electronic logging by medical students during their emergency medicine clerkship has many potential benefits as a method to document clinical encounters and procedures performed. However, this study demonstrated poor compliance and dissatisfaction with the process. In order for electronic logging using handheld computers to be a beneficial educational tool for both learners and educators, obstacles to effective implementation need to be addressed.

  17. Enabling Wide-Scale Computer Science Education through Improved Automated Assessment Tools

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Boe, Bryce A.

    There is a proliferating demand for newly trained computer scientists as the number of computer science related jobs continues to increase. University programs will only be able to train enough new computer scientists to meet this demand when two things happen: when there are more primary and secondary school students interested in computer science, and when university departments have the resources to handle the resulting increase in enrollment. To meet these goals, significant effort is being made to both incorporate computational thinking into existing primary school education, and to support larger university computer science class sizes. We contribute to this effort through the creation and use of improved automated assessment tools. To enable wide-scale computer science education we do two things. First, we create a framework called Hairball to support the static analysis of Scratch programs targeted for fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students. Scratch is a popular building-block language utilized to pique interest in and teach the basics of computer science. We observe that Hairball allows for rapid curriculum alterations and thus contributes to wide-scale deployment of computer science curriculum. Second, we create a real-time feedback and assessment system utilized in university computer science classes to provide better feedback to students while reducing assessment time. Insights from our analysis of student submission data show that modifications to the system configuration support the way students learn and progress through course material, making it possible for instructors to tailor assignments to optimize learning in growing computer science classes.

  18. Taxis through Computer Simulation Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Park, David

    1983-01-01

    Describes a sequence of five computer programs (listings for Apple II available from author) on tactic responses (oriented movement of a cell, cell group, or whole organism in reponse to stimuli). The simulation programs are useful in helping students examine mechanisms at work in real organisms. (JN)

  19. Pedagogy and Processes for a Computer Programming Outreach Workshop--The Bridge to College Model

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tangney, Brendan; Oldham, Elizabeth; Conneely, Claire; Barrett, Stephen; Lawlor, John

    2010-01-01

    This paper describes a model for computer programming outreach workshops aimed at second-level students (ages 15-16). Participants engage in a series of programming activities based on the Scratch visual programming language, and a very strong group-based pedagogy is followed. Participants are not required to have any prior programming experience.…

  20. Introducing Seismic Tomography with Computational Modeling

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Neves, R.; Neves, M. L.; Teodoro, V.

    2011-12-01

    Learning seismic tomography principles and techniques involves advanced physical and computational knowledge. In depth learning of such computational skills is a difficult cognitive process that requires a strong background in physics, mathematics and computer programming. The corresponding learning environments and pedagogic methodologies should then involve sets of computational modelling activities with computer software systems which allow students the possibility to improve their mathematical or programming knowledge and simultaneously focus on the learning of seismic wave propagation and inverse theory. To reduce the level of cognitive opacity associated with mathematical or programming knowledge, several computer modelling systems have already been developed (Neves & Teodoro, 2010). Among such systems, Modellus is particularly well suited to achieve this goal because it is a domain general environment for explorative and expressive modelling with the following main advantages: 1) an easy and intuitive creation of mathematical models using just standard mathematical notation; 2) the simultaneous exploration of images, tables, graphs and object animations; 3) the attribution of mathematical properties expressed in the models to animated objects; and finally 4) the computation and display of mathematical quantities obtained from the analysis of images and graphs. Here we describe virtual simulations and educational exercises which enable students an easy grasp of the fundamental of seismic tomography. The simulations make the lecture more interactive and allow students the possibility to overcome their lack of advanced mathematical or programming knowledge and focus on the learning of seismological concepts and processes taking advantage of basic scientific computation methods and tools.

  1. Life Lab Computer Support System's Manual.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lippman, Beatrice D.; Walfish, Stephen

    Step-by-step procedures for utilizing the computer support system of Miami-Dade Community College's Life Lab program are described for the following categories: (1) Registration--Student's Lists and Labels, including three separate computer programs for current listings, next semester listings, and grade listings; (2) Competence and Resource…

  2. A Turing Machine Simulator.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Navarro, Aaron B.

    1981-01-01

    Presents a program in Level II BASIC for a TRS-80 computer that simulates a Turing machine and discusses the nature of the device. The program is run interactively and is designed to be used as an educational tool by computer science or mathematics students studying computational or automata theory. (MP)

  3. A Web-Based Blended Learning Environment for Programming Languages: Students' Opinions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yagci, Mustafa

    2017-01-01

    A learning environment which increases the desire and efforts of students to attain learning goals leads to greater motivation and success. This study examines the negative and positive opinions of students regarding the effectiveness of the learning process and students' success in a computer programming course in which face-to-face and web-based…

  4. Students' learning of clinical sonography: use of computer-assisted instruction and practical class.

    PubMed

    Wood, A K; Dadd, M J; Lublin, J R

    1996-08-01

    The application of information technology to teaching radiology will profoundly change the way learning is mediated to students. In this project, the integration of veterinary medical students' knowledge of sonography was promoted by a computer-assisted instruction program and a subsequent practical class. The computer-assisted instruction program emphasized the physical principles of clinical sonography and contained simulations and user-active experiments. In the practical class, the students used an actual sonographic machine for the first time and made images of a tissue-equivalent phantom. Students' responses to questionnaires were analyzed. On completing the overall project, 96% of the students said that they now understood sonographic concepts very or reasonably well, and 98% had become very or moderately interested in clinical sonography. The teaching and learning initiatives enhanced an integrated approach to learning, stimulated student interest and curiosity, improved understanding of sonographic principles, and contributed to an increased confidence and skill in using sonographic equipment.

  5. Portraits of PBL: Course Objectives and Students' Study Strategies in Computer Engineering, Psychology and Physiotherapy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dahlgren, Madeleine Abrandt

    2000-01-01

    Compares the role of course objectives in relation to students' study strategies in problem-based learning (PBL). Results comprise data from three PBL programs at Linkopings University (Sweden), in physiotherapy, psychology, and computer engineering. Faculty provided course objectives to function as supportive structures and guides for students'…

  6. Student Engagement with Computer-Generated Feedback: A Case Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Zhang, Zhe

    2017-01-01

    In order to benefit from feedback on their writing, students need to engage effectively with it. This article reports a case study on student engagement with computer-generated feedback, known as automated writing evaluation (AWE) feedback, in an EFL context. Differing from previous studies that explored commercially available AWE programs, this…

  7. Use of MathCAD in a Pharmacokinetics Course for PharmD Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sullivan, Timothy J.

    1992-01-01

    This paper describes the application of the Student Edition of MathCAD as a computational aid in an introductory graduate level pharmacokinetics course. The program allows the student to perform mathematical calculations and analysis on a computer screen. The advantages and disadvantages of this application are discussed. (GLR)

  8. A Placement Test for Computer Science: Design, Implementation, and Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nugent, Gwen; Soh, Leen-Kiat; Samal, Ashok; Lang, Jeff

    2006-01-01

    An introductory CS1 course presents problems for educators and students due to students' diverse background in programming knowledge and exposure. Students who enroll in CS1 also have different expectations and motivations. Prompted by the curricular guidelines for undergraduate programmes in computer science released in 2001 by the ACM/IEEE, and…

  9. The Exploration of Student-Centred Approaches for the Improvement of Learning Programming in Higher Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hawi, Nazir

    2010-01-01

    The author has undergone a major shift in the way of teaching his undergraduate computer programming courses. In the classroom, the teacher's computer is connected to a splitter and a video projector that display the computer's screen to the entire class. Using this technology, the programming language itself is used live in class to help the…

  10. Computer Assisted Diagnostic Prescriptive Program in Reading and Mathematics. An Exemplary Micro-Computer Program and a Developer/Demonstrator Project, National Diffusion Network.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Roberson, E. Wayne; Glowinski, Debra J.

    The Computer Assisted Diagnostic Prescriptive Program (CADPP) is a customized databased curriculum management system which permits the user to load the following into a filing/retrieval software system: (1) learning characteristics of individual students (e.g., age, instructional level, learning modality); (2) skill-oriented characteristics of…

  11. A Computer-Assisted Laboratory Sequence for Petroleum Geology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lumsden, David N.

    1979-01-01

    Describes a competitive oil-play game for petroleum geology students. It is accompanied by a computer program written in interactive Fortran. The program, however, is not essential, but useful for adding more interest. (SA)

  12. MINEXP, A Computer-Simulated Mineral Exploration Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Michael J.; And Others

    1978-01-01

    This computer simulation is designed to put students into a realistic decision making situation in mineral exploration. This program can be used with different exploration situations such as ore deposits, petroleum, ground water, etc. (MR)

  13. Home Economics. Education for Technology Employment.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Northern Illinois Univ., De Kalb. Dept. of Technology.

    This guide was developed in an Illinois program to help home economics teachers integrate the use of computers and program-related software into existing programs. After students are taught the basic computer skills outlined in the beginning of the guide, 50 learning activities can be used as an integral part of the instructional program. (One or…

  14. Comparing Virtual and Physical Robotics Environments for Supporting Complex Systems and Computational Thinking

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berland, Matthew; Wilensky, Uri

    2015-01-01

    Both complex systems methods (such as agent-based modeling) and computational methods (such as programming) provide powerful ways for students to understand new phenomena. To understand how to effectively teach complex systems and computational content to younger students, we conducted a study in four urban middle school classrooms comparing…

  15. Undergraduate Paramedic Students' Attitudes to E-Learning: Findings from Five University Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Williams, Brett; Boyle, Malcolm; Molloy, Andrew; Brightwell, Richard; Munro, Graham; Service, Melinda; Brown, Ted

    2011-01-01

    Computers and computer-assisted instruction are being used with increasing frequency in the area of undergraduate paramedic education. Paramedic students' attitudes towards the use of e-learning technology and computer-assisted instruction have received limited attention in the empirical literature to date. The objective of this study was to…

  16. Towards a Virtual Teaching Assistant to Answer Questions Asked by Students in Introductory Computer Science

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Heiner, Cecily

    2009-01-01

    Students in introductory programming classes often articulate their questions and information needs incompletely. Consequently, the automatic classification of student questions to provide automated tutorial responses is a challenging problem. This dissertation analyzes 411 questions from an introductory Java programming course by reducing the…

  17. IMS Version 3 Student Data Base Maintenance Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brown, John R.

    Computer routines that update the Instructional Management System (IMS) Version 3 student data base which supports the Southwest Regional Laboratory's (SWRL) student monitoring system are described. Written in IBM System 360 FORTRAN IV, the program updates the data base by adding, changing and deleting records, as well as adding and deleting…

  18. Exchanging Education and Culture.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gustafson, Christine; Knowlton, Leslie

    1993-01-01

    An eight-week residential program at the University of California at Irvine aims to increase representation of Native American students in high-tech fields and to encourage transfer of Native American students to four-year programs. Students spend four weeks in intensive computer science classes and four weeks serving as interns at sponsoring…

  19. Student Record Automating Using Desktop Computer Technologies.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Almerico, Gina M.; Baker, Russell K.; Matassini, Norma

    Teacher education programs nationwide are required by state and federal governments to maintain comprehensive student records of all current and graduated students in their programs. A private, mid-sized university established a faculty team to analyze record-keeping procedures to comply with these government requirements. The team's mandate was…

  20. Impact of computer-based treatment planning software on clinical judgment of dental students for planning prosthodontic rehabilitation

    PubMed Central

    Deshpande, Saee; Chahande, Jayashree

    2014-01-01

    Purpose Successful prosthodontic rehabilitation involves making many interrelated clinical decisions which have an impact on each other. Self-directed computer-based training has been shown to be a very useful tool to develop synthetic and analytical problem-solving skills among students. Thus, a computer-based case study and treatment planning (CSTP) software program was developed which would allow students to work through the process of comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment planning for patients in a structured and logical manner. The present study was aimed at assessing the effect of this CSTP software on the clinical judgment of dental students while planning prosthodontic rehabilitation and to assess the students’ perceptions about using the program for its intended use. Methods A CSTP software program was developed and validated. The impact of this program on the clinical decision making skills of dental graduates was evaluated by real life patient encounters, using a modified and validated mini-CEX. Students’ perceptions about the program were obtained by a pre-validated feedback questionnaire. Results The faculty assessment scores of clinical judgment improved significantly after the use of this program. The majority of students felt it was an informative, useful, and innovative way of learning and they strongly felt that they had learnt the logical progression of planning, the insight into decision making, and the need for flexibility in treatment planning after using this program. Conclusion CSTP software was well received by the students. There was significant improvement in students’ clinical judgment after using this program. It should thus be envisaged fundamentally as an adjunct to conventional teaching techniques to improve students’ decision making skills and confidence. PMID:25170288

  1. Playable Serious Games for Studying and Programming Computational STEM and Informatics Applications of Distributed and Parallel Computer Architectures

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Amenyo, John-Thones

    2012-01-01

    Carefully engineered playable games can serve as vehicles for students and practitioners to learn and explore the programming of advanced computer architectures to execute applications, such as high performance computing (HPC) and complex, inter-networked, distributed systems. The article presents families of playable games that are grounded in…

  2. Mechanical Design Technology--Modified. (Computer Assisted Drafting, Computer Aided Design). Curriculum Grant 84/85.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schoolcraft Coll., Livonia, MI.

    This document is a curriculum guide for a program in mechanical design technology (computer-assisted drafting and design developed at Schoolcraft College, Livonia, Michigan). The program helps students to acquire the skills of drafters and to interact with electronic equipment, with the option of becoming efficient in the computer-aided…

  3. An Interactive Computer Program for Simulating the Effects of Olivine Fractionation from Basaltic and Ultrabasic Liquids.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pearce, Thomas H.

    1983-01-01

    Describes interactive computer program (listing available from author) which simulates olivine fractionation from basaltic/ultrabasic liquid. The menu-driven nature of the program (for Apple II microcomputer) allows students to select ideal Rayleigh fractionation or equilibrium crystallization. (JN)

  4. Teaching Computer Science: A Problem Solving Approach that Works.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Allan, V. H.; Kolesar, M. V.

    The typical introductory programming course is not an appropriate first computer science course for many students. Initial experiences with programming are often frustrating, resulting in a low rate of successful completion, and focus on syntax rather than providing a representative picture of computer science as a discipline. The paper discusses…

  5. Wearing the Assessment "BRACElet"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tan, Grace; Venables, Anne

    2010-01-01

    There exists a wealth of computing education literature devoted to interventions designed to overcome novices' difficulties in learning to write computer programs. However, various studies have shown that the majority of students at the end of a semester of instruction are still unable to write a simple computer program, despite the best efforts…

  6. A Serious Game of Success

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Nikirk, Martin

    2006-01-01

    This article discusses a computer game design and animation pilot at Washington County Technical High School as part of the advanced computer applications completer program. The focus of the instructional program is to teach students the 16 components of computer game design through a team-centered, problem-solving instructional format. Among…

  7. Advanced CNC Programming (EZ-CAM). 439-366.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Casey, Joe

    This document contains two units for an advanced course in computer numerical control (CNC) for computer-aided manufacturing. It is intended to familiarize students with the principles and techniques necessary to create proper CNC programs using computer software. Each unit consists of an introduction, instructional objectives, learning materials,…

  8. Learning about Computers through Art History and Art Practice.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lichtman, Loy

    1996-01-01

    Describes a Victoria University (Australia) program that combines art history, computer graphics, and studio practice. Discusses the social applications of technology, the creation and manipulation of computer imagery, and the ways that these impact traditional concepts of art. The program has proven particularly successful with female students.…

  9. An Integrative and Collaborative Approach to Creating a Diverse and Computationally Competent Geoscience Workforce

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moore, S. L.; Kar, A.; Gomez, R.

    2015-12-01

    A partnership between Fort Valley State University (FVSU), the Jackson School of Geosciences at The University of Texas (UT) at Austin, and the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC) is engaging computational geoscience faculty and researchers with academically talented underrepresented minority (URM) students, training them to solve grand challenges . These next generation computational geoscientists are being trained to solve some of the world's most challenging geoscience grand challenges requiring data intensive large scale modeling and simulation on high performance computers . UT Austin's geoscience outreach program GeoFORCE, recently awarded the Presidential Award in Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring, contributes to the collaborative best practices in engaging researchers with URM students. Collaborative efforts over the past decade are providing data demonstrating that integrative pipeline programs with mentoring and paid internship opportunities, multi-year scholarships, computational training, and communication skills development are having an impact on URMs developing middle skills for geoscience careers. Since 1997, the Cooperative Developmental Energy Program at FVSU and its collaborating universities have graduated 87 engineers, 33 geoscientists, and eight health physicists. Recruited as early as high school, students enroll for three years at FVSU majoring in mathematics, chemistry or biology, and then transfer to UT Austin or other partner institutions to complete a second STEM degree, including geosciences. A partnership with the Integrative Computational Education and Research Traineeship (ICERT), a National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Site at TACC provides students with a 10-week summer research experience at UT Austin. Mentored by TACC researchers, students with no previous background in computational science learn to use some of the world's most powerful high performance computing resources to address a grand geosciences problem. Students increase their ability to understand and explain the societal impact of their research and communicate the research to multidisciplinary and lay audiences via near-peer mentoring, poster presentations, and publication opportunities.

  10. Social Networks Impact Factor on Students' Achievements and Attitudes towards the "Computer in Teaching" Course at the College of Education

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Elfeky, Abdellah

    2017-01-01

    The study aims to examine the impact of social networks of a "Computer in Teaching" course on the achievement and attitudes students at the faculty of education at Najran University. The sample consists of (60) students from the third level in the special education program, (30) students represented the control group whereas the other…

  11. A Teaching Exercise for the Identification of Bacteria Using An Interactive Computer Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bryant, Trevor N.; Smith, John E.

    1979-01-01

    Describes an interactive Fortran computer program which provides an exercise in the identification of bacteria. Provides a way of enhancing a student's approach to systematic bacteriology and numerical identification procedures. (Author/MA)

  12. Computers Are for Kids: Designing Software Programs to Avoid Problems of Learning.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Grimes, Lynn

    1981-01-01

    Procedures for programing computers to deal with handicapped students, problems in selective attention, visual discrimination, reaction time differences, short term memory, transfer and generalization, recognition of mistakes, and social skills are discussed. (CL)

  13. A Reading Skills Development Program for Adult Non-Readers. Featuring: Supplementary Graphics and Sound (Voice Tutorials). Volumes 1 and 2. The TRS-80 Computer Assisted Instruction Series for Adult Basic Education Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    San Antonio State Hospital, TX. Office of Education Services.

    This instructional manual consists of materials for use in implementing a computer-assisted instructional program in reading skills development for adult nonreaders. Discussed first are the project during which this instructional program and manual were developed and the goals of the computer-assisted beginning reading program, a major feature of…

  14. Writing as a Design Discipline: Exploring the Relationship between Composition and Programming.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Walton, Richard E.; Balestri, Diane

    1987-01-01

    Examines similarities between composition and programming processes, and reviews two studies that linked instruction in computer programming and freshman composition to help students understand writing as a design discipline. Projects at the University of Montana and Bryn Mawr College which improved students' writing abilities are described. (LRW)

  15. The Impact of the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Program on Student Reading Achievement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cordray, David S.; Pion, Georgine M.; Brandt, Chris; Molefe, Ayrin

    2013-01-01

    One of the most widely used commercially available systems incorporating benchmark assessment and training in differentiated instruction is the Northwest Evaluation Association's (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) program. The MAP program involves two components: (1) computer-adaptive assessments administered to students three to four…

  16. An Investigation of Factors Related to Self-Efficacy for Java Programming among Engineering Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Askar, Petek; Davenport, David

    2009-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine the factors related to self-efficacy for Java programming among first year engineering students. An instrument assessing Java programming self-efficacy was developed from the computer programming self-efficacy scale of Ramalingam & Wiedenbeck. The instrument was administered at the beginning of the…

  17. First-Year Students' Impressions of Pair Programming in CS1

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Simon, Beth; Hanks, Brian

    2008-01-01

    Pair programming, as part of the Agile Development process, has noted benefits in professional software development scenarios. These successes have led to a rise in use of pair programming in educational settings, particularly in Computer Science 1 (CS1). Specifically, McDowell et al. [2006] has shown that students using pair programming in CS1 do…

  18. Investigating Difficulties of Learning Computer Programming in Saudi Arabia

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Alakeel, Ali M.

    2015-01-01

    Learning computer programming is one of the main requirements of many educational study plans in higher education. Research has shown that many students face difficulties acquiring reasonable programming skills during their first year of college. In Saudi Arabia, there are twenty-three state-owned universities scattered around the country that…

  19. A CS1 Pedagogical Approach to Parallel Thinking

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rague, Brian William

    2010-01-01

    Almost all collegiate programs in Computer Science offer an introductory course in programming primarily devoted to communicating the foundational principles of software design and development. The ACM designates this introduction to computer programming course for first-year students as CS1, during which methodologies for solving problems within…

  20. Teaching Ethical Copyright Behavior: Assessing the Effects of a University-Sponsored Computing Ethics Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Siemens, Jennifer Christie; Kopp, Steven W.

    2006-01-01

    Universities have become sensitized to the potential for students' illegal downloading of copyrighted materials. Education has been advocated as one way to curb downloading of copyrighted digital content. This study investigates the effectiveness of a university-sponsored computing ethics education program. The program positively influenced…

  1. CATS--Computer Assisted Teaching in Science.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Barron, Marcelline A.

    This document contains the listings for 46 computer programs which are designed to teach various concepts in chemistry and physics. Significant time was spent in writing programs in which students would input chemical and physical data from their laboratory experiments. No significant time was spent writing drill and practice programs other than…

  2. Primary School Pupils' Attitudes toward Learning Programming through Visual Interactive Environments

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Asad, Khaled; Tibi, Moanis; Raiyn, Jamal

    2016-01-01

    New generations are using and playing with mobile and computer applications extensively. These applications are the outcomes of programming work that involves skills, such as computational and algorithmic thinking. Learning programming is not easy for students children. In recent years, academic institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of…

  3. Computers and Careers: A Suggested Curriculum for Grades 9-12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Central Texas Coll., Killeen.

    The curriculum guide is designed to help high school administrators, teachers, and others to develop or expand a program to introduce all students to general computer capabilities, to provide certain students with a problem solving tool, or to prepare other students for entry into the job market. Help is given in planning and organizing the…

  4. Multi-Institution Study of Student Demographics and Outcomes in Electrical and Computer Engineering in the USA

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lord, Susan M.; Layton, Richard A.; Ohland, Matthew W.

    2015-01-01

    Electrical Engineering (EE) and Computer Engineering (CpE) programs have similar curricula, but different demographics and student outcomes. This paper extends earlier longitudinal studies to a larger and more diverse dataset with 90,000 first-time-in-college and 26,000 transfer students who majored in engineering at USA institutions, including…

  5. Feasibility of a home-delivered Internet obesity prevention program for fourth-grade students.

    PubMed

    Owens, Scott; Lambert, Laurel; McDonough, Suzanne; Green, Kenneth; Loftin, Mark

    2009-08-01

    This pilot study examined the feasibility of an interactive obesity prevention program delivered to a class of fourth-grade students utilizing daily e-mail messages sent to the students' home computers. The study involved a single intact class of 22 students, 17 (77%) of whom submitted parental permission documentation and received e-mail messages each school day over the course of one month. Concerns regarding Internet safety and children's use of e-mail were addressed fairly easily. Cost/benefit issues for the school did not seem prohibitive. Providing e-mail access to students without a home computer was accomplished by loaning them personal digital assistant (PDA) devices. In larger interventions, loaning PDAs is probably not feasible economically, although cell phones may be an acceptable alternative. It was concluded that this type of interactive obesity prevention program is feasible from most perspectives. Data from a larger scale effectiveness study is still needed.

  6. The Use of Reverse Engineering to Analyse Student Computer Programs.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vanneste, Philip; And Others

    1996-01-01

    Discusses how the reverse engineering approach can generate feedback on computer programs without the user having any prior knowledge of what the program was designed to do. This approach uses the cognitive model of programming knowledge to interpret both context independent and dependent errors in the same words and concepts as human programmers.…

  7. Chapter 2. Adolescents' Attitudes toward the Computer

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Russian Education and Society, 2004

    2004-01-01

    This second chapter focuses on an analysis of the aspects that characterize the typical content of students' attitudes toward the world of computers. In this connection, it attempts to determine what is of the greatest interest to students as they deal with the world of computers, which types of programs they use, and which magazines they read…

  8. Computer Oriented Exercises on Attitudes and U.S. Gasoline Consumption, Attitude. Student Guide. Computer Technology Program Environmental Education Units.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Northwest Regional Educational Lab., Portland, OR.

    This is the student guide in a set of five computer-oriented environmental/energy education units. Contents of this guide present: (1) the three gasoline consumption-reducing options for which attitudes are to be explored; (2) exercises; and (3) appendices including an energy attitudes survey. (MR)

  9. Undergraduate Student Task Group Approach to Complex Problem Solving Employing Computer Programming.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brooks, LeRoy D.

    A project formulated a computer simulation game for use as an instructional device to improve financial decision making. The author constructed a hypothetical firm, specifying its environment, variables, and a maximization problem. Students, assisted by a professor and computer consultants and having access to B5500 and B6700 facilities, held 16…

  10. Apple IIe Computers and Appleworks Training Mini Course Materials.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schlenker, Richard M.

    The instructional materials included in this document are designed to introduce students to the Apple IIe computer and to the word processing and database portions of the AppleWorks program. The materials are intended for small groups of students, each of whom has use of a computer during class and for short periods between classes. The course…

  11. Education:=Coding+Aesthetics; Aesthetic Understanding, Computer Science Education, and Computational Thinking

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Good, Jonathon; Keenan, Sarah; Mishra, Punya

    2016-01-01

    The popular press is rife with examples of how students in the United States and around the globe are learning to program, make, and tinker. The Hour of Code, maker-education, and similar efforts are advocating that more students be exposed to principles found within computer science. We propose an expansion beyond simply teaching computational…

  12. Longitudinal Study of Factors Impacting the Implementation of Notebook Computer Based CAD Instruction

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Goosen, Richard F.

    2009-01-01

    This study provides information for higher education leaders that have or are considering conducting Computer Aided Design (CAD) instruction using student owned notebook computers. Survey data were collected during the first 8 years of a pilot program requiring engineering technology students at a four year public university to acquire a notebook…

  13. Xinyinqin: a computer-based heart sound simulator.

    PubMed

    Zhan, X X; Pei, J H; Xiao, Y H

    1995-01-01

    "Xinyinqin" is the Chinese phoneticized name of the Heart Sound Simulator (HSS). The "qin" in "Xinyinqin" is the Chinese name of a category of musical instruments, which means that the operation of HSS is very convenient--like playing an electric piano with the keys. HSS is connected to the GAME I/O of an Apple microcomputer. The generation of sound is controlled by a program. Xinyinqin is used as a teaching aid of Diagnostics. It has been applied in teaching for three years. In this demonstration we will introduce the following functions of HSS: 1) The main program has two modules. The first one is the heart auscultation training module. HSS can output a heart sound selected by the student. Another program module is used to test the student's learning condition. The computer can randomly simulate a certain heart sound and ask the student to name it. The computer gives the student's answer an assessment: "correct" or "incorrect." When the answer is incorrect, the computer will output that heart sound again for the student to listen to; this process is repeated until she correctly identifies it. 2) The program is convenient to use and easy to control. By pressing the S key, it is able to output a slow heart rate until the student can clearly identify the rhythm. The heart rate, like the actual rate of a patient, can then be restored by hitting any key. By pressing the SPACE BAR, the heart sound output can be stopped to allow the teacher to explain something to the student. The teacher can resume playing the heart sound again by hitting any key; she can also change the content of the training by hitting RETURN key. In the future, we plan to simulate more heart sounds and incorporate relevant graphs.

  14. Secondary Education Students' Difficulties in Algorithmic Problems with Arrays: An Analysis Using the SOLO Taxonomy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vrachnos, Euripides; Jimoyiannis, Athanassios

    2017-01-01

    Developing students' algorithmic and computational thinking is currently a major objective for primary and secondary education in many countries around the globe. Literature suggests that students face at various difficulties in programming processes, because of their mental models about basic programming constructs. Arrays constitute the first…

  15. Students' Understanding of Loops and Nested Loops in Computer Programming: An APOS Theory Perspective

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cetin, Ibrahim

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to explore students' understanding of loops and nested loops concepts. Sixty-three mechanical engineering students attending an introductory programming course participated in the study. APOS (Action, Process, Object, Schema) is a constructivist theory developed originally for mathematics education. This study is the…

  16. Let's Prepare--Not Repair--Our At Risk Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Merrell, Jean Groves

    Project Earlybird assists at-risk students to anticipate the upcoming classwork and be ready for the lessons when the teacher presents them. The project is a before/after school program in which elementary students in grades 2 through 5 are given extra help with reading, mainly using computers. Elements of the program include: (1) raising…

  17. Five C Framework: A Student-Centered Approach for Teaching Programming Courses to Students with Diverse Disciplinary Background

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tom, Mary

    2015-01-01

    The already existing complexities of teaching and learning computer programming are increased where students are diverse in their disciplinary backgrounds, language skills, and culture. Learners experience emotional issues of anxiety, fear or boredom. Identifying opportunities for improvement and applying theoretical and empirical evidence found…

  18. The Effect of Lego Mindstorms Ev3 Based Design Activities on Students' Attitudes towards Learning Computer Programming, Self-Efficacy Beliefs and Levels of Academic Achievement

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korkmaz, Özgen

    2016-01-01

    The aim of the study was to present the effect of Lego Mindstorms Ev3 based design activities on students' attitudes towards learning computer programming, self-efficacy beliefs and levels of academic achievement. The research is a pretest-posttest with control group semi-experimental study. The study group of the research consisted of 53 students…

  19. A survey of the computer literacy of undergraduate dental students at a University Dental School in Ireland during the academic year 1997-98.

    PubMed

    Ray, N J; Hannigan, A

    1999-05-01

    As dental practice management becomes more computer-based, the efficient functioning of the dentist will become dependent on adequate computer literacy. A survey has been carried out into the computer literacy of a cohort of 140 undergraduate dental students at a University Dental School in Ireland (years 1-5), in the academic year 1997-98. Aspects investigated by anonymous questionnaire were: (1) keyboard skills; (2) computer skills; (3) access to computer facilities; (4) software competencies and (5) use of medical library computer facilities. The students are relatively unfamiliar with basic computer hardware and software: 51.1% considered their expertise with computers as "poor"; 34.3% had taken a formal typewriting or computer keyboarding course; 7.9% had taken a formal computer course at university level and 67.2% were without access to computer facilities at their term-time residences. A majority of students had never used either word-processing, spreadsheet, or graphics programs. Programs relating to "informatics" were more popular, such as literature searching, accessing the Internet and the use of e-mail which represent the major use of the computers in the medical library. The lack of experience with computers may be addressed by including suitable computing courses at the secondary level (age 13-18 years) and/or tertiary level (FE/HE) education programmes. Such training may promote greater use of generic softwares, particularly in the library, with a more electronic-based approach to data handling.

  20. Educational Experiences in Oceanography through Hands-On Involvement with Surface Drifters: an Introduction to Ocean Currents, Engineering, Data Collection, and Computer Science

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Anderson, T.

    2015-12-01

    The Northeast Fisheries Science Center's (NEFSC) Student Drifters Program is providing education opportunities for students of all ages. Using GPS-tracked ocean drifters, various educational institutions can provide students with hands-on experience in physical oceanography, engineering, and computer science. In building drifters many high school and undergraduate students may focus on drifter construction, sometimes designing their own drifter or attempting to improve current NEFSC models. While learning basic oceanography younger students can build drifters with the help of an educator and directions available on the studentdrifters.org website. Once drifters are deployed, often by a local mariner or oceanographic partner, drifter tracks can be visualised on maps provided at http://nefsc.noaa.gov/drifter. With the lesson plans available for those interested in computer science, students may download, process, and plot the drifter position data with basic Python code provided. Drifter tracks help students to visualize ocean currents, and also allow them to understand real particle tracking applications such as in search and rescue, oil spill dispersion, larval transport, and the movement of injured sea animals. Additionally, ocean circulation modelers can use student drifter paths to validate their models. The Student Drifters Program has worked with over 100 schools, several of them having deployed drifters on the West Coast. Funding for the program often comes from individual schools and small grants but in the future will preferably come from larger government grants. NSF, Sea-Grant, NOAA, and EPA are all possible sources of funding, especially with the support of multiple schools and large marine education associations. The Student Drifters Program is a unique resource for educators, students, and scientists alike.

  1. A Computer-Based Atlas of a Rat Dissection.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Quentin-Baxter, Megan; Dewhurst, David

    1990-01-01

    A hypermedia computer program that uses text, graphics, sound, and animation with associative information linking techniques to teach the functional anatomy of a rat is described. The program includes a nonintimidating tutor, to which the student may turn. (KR)

  2. Computing in Secondary Physics at Armdale, W.A.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smith, Clifton L.

    1976-01-01

    An Australian secondary school physics course utilizing an electronic programmable calculator and computer is described. Calculation techniques and functions, programming techniques, and simulation of physical systems are detailed. A summary of student responses to the program is included. (BT)

  3. Evaluation of a Computer Simulation in a Therapeutics Case Discussion.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kinkade, Raenel E.; And Others

    1995-01-01

    A computer program was used to simulate a case presentation in pharmacotherapeutics. Students (n=24) used their knowledge of the disease (glaucoma) and various topical agents on the computer program's formulary to "treat" the patient. Comparison of results with a control group found the method as effective as traditional case…

  4. Relationships among Learning Styles and Motivation with Computer-Aided Instruction in an Agronomy Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McAndrews, Gina M.; Mullen, Russell E.; Chadwick, Scott A.

    2005-01-01

    Multi-media learning tools were developed to enhance student learning for an introductory agronomy course at Iowa State University. During fall 2002, the new interactive computer program, called Computer Interactive Multimedia Program for Learning Enhancement (CIMPLE) was incorporated into the teaching, learning, and assessment processes of the…

  5. Assured Access/Mobile Computing Initiatives on Five University Campuses.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blurton, Craig; Chee, Yam San; Long, Phillip D.; Resmer, Mark; Runde, Craig

    Mobile computing and assured access are becoming popular terms to describe a growing number of university programs which take advantage of ubiquitous network access points and the portability of notebook computers to ensure all students have access to digital tools and resources. However, the implementation of such programs varies widely from…

  6. Using Computer Assisted Instruction in a Reading and Study Skills Course.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rauch, Margaret

    Test wiseness programs and computer assisted study skills instruction (CASSI) were found to be valuable resources for college reading and study skills instructors and students at St. Cloud State University (Minnesota). Two booklets on test wiseness cues were reorganized and used as computer programs to allow the information to be presented outside…

  7. Evaluating Computer Integration in the Elementary School: A Step-by-Step Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mowe, Richard

    This handbook was written to enable elementary school educators to conduct formative evaluations of their computer integrated instruction (CII) programs in minimum time. CII is defined as the use of computer software, such as word processing, database, and graphics programs, to help students solve problems or work more productively. The first…

  8. The Dynamic Geometrisation of Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Sinclair, Nathalie; Patterson, Margaret

    2018-01-01

    The goal of this paper is to explore dynamic geometry environments (DGE) as a type of computer programming language. Using projects created by secondary students in one particular DGE, we analyse the extent to which the various aspects of computational thinking--including both ways of doing things and particular concepts--were evident in their…

  9. Computer-science guest-lecture series at Langston University sponsored by the U.S. Geological Survey; abstracts, 1992-93

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Steele, K. S.

    1994-01-01

    Langston University, a Historically Black University located at Langston, Oklahoma, has a computing and information science program within the Langston University Division of Business. Since 1984, Langston University has participated in the Historically Black College and University program of the U.S. Department of Interior, which provided education, training, and funding through a combined earth-science and computer-technology cooperative program with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). USGS personnel have presented guest lectures at Langston University since 1984. Students have been enthusiastic about the lectures, and as a result of this program, 13 Langston University students have been hired by the USGS on a part-time basis while they continued their education at the University. The USGS expanded the offering of guest lectures in 1992 by increasing the number of visits to Langston University, and by inviting participation of speakers from throughout the country. The objectives of the guest-lecture series are to assist Langston University in offering state-of-the-art education in the computer sciences, to provide students with an opportunity to learn from and interact with skilled computer-science professionals, and to develop a pool of potential future employees for part-time and full-time employment. This report includes abstracts for guest-lecture presentations during 1992-93 school year.

  10. An Evaluation of the Higher Order Thinking Skills Program with Fourth and Fifth Grade Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Eisenman, J. Gordon, Jr.

    The Higher Order Thinking Skills Program (HOTS) is a computer-based program for teaching thinking skills developed by Stanley Pogrow at the University of Arizona. It is now used in over 800 U.S. schools. This study investigated the effects of the HOTS program versus the traditional Chapter 1 program on fourth and fifth grade students'…

  11. The use of computers to teach human anatomy and physiology to allied health and nursing students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bergeron, Valerie J.

    Educational institutions are under tremendous pressure to adopt the newest technologies in order to prepare their students to meet the challenges of the twenty-first century. For the last twenty years huge amounts of money have been spent on computers, printers, software, multimedia projection equipment, and so forth. A reasonable question is, "Has it worked?" Has this infusion of resources, financial as well as human, resulted in improved learning? Are the students meeting the intended learning goals? Any attempt to develop answers to these questions should include examining the intended goals and exploring the effects of the changes on students and faculty. This project investigated the impact of a specific application of a computer program in a community college setting on students' attitudes and understanding of human anatomy and physiology. In this investigation two sites of the same community college with seemingly similar students populations, seven miles apart, used different laboratory activities to teach human anatomy and physiology. At one site nursing students were taught using traditional dissections and laboratory activities; at the other site two of the dissections, specifically cat and sheep pluck, were replaced with the A.D.A.M.RTM (Animated Dissection of Anatomy for Medicine) computer program. Analysis of the attitude data indicated that students at both sites were extremely positive about their laboratory experiences. Analysis of the content data indicated a statistically significant difference in performance between the two sites in two of the eight content areas that were studied. For both topics the students using the computer program scored higher. A detailed analysis of the surveys, interviews with faculty and students, examination of laboratory materials, and observations of laboratory facilities in both sites, and cost-benefit analysis led to the development of seven recommendations. The recommendations call for action at the level of the institution requiring investment in additional resources, and at the level of the faculty requiring a commitment to exploration and reflective practice.

  12. Computers, Technology, and Disability. [Update.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    American Council on Education, Washington, DC. HEATH Resource Center.

    This paper describes programs and resources that focus on access of postsecondary students with disabilities to computers and other forms of technology. Increased access to technological devices and services is provided to students with disabilities under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act (Tech Act). Section…

  13. Multiplayer Activities That Develop Mathematical Coordination.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bricker, Lauren J.; Tanimoto, Steven L.; Rothenberg, Alex I.; Hutama, Danny C.; Wong, Tina H.

    Four computer applications are presented that encourage students to develop "mathematical coordination"--the ability to manipulate numerical variables in cooperation with other students so as to achieve a definite goal. The programs enable a form of computer-supported cooperative learning (CSCL). This paper describes the rationale and…

  14. Alliance for Computational Science Collaboration, HBCU Partnership at Alabama A&M University Final Performance Technical Report

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Deng, Z.T.

    2001-11-15

    The objective of this project was to conduct high-performance computing research and teaching at AAMU, and to train African-American and other minority students and scientists in the computational science field for eventual employment with DOE. During the project period, eight tasks were accomplished. Student Research Assistant, Work Study, Summer Interns, Scholarship were proved to be one of the best ways for us to attract top-quality minority students. Under the support of DOE, through research, summer interns, collaborations, scholarships programs, AAMU has successfully provided research and educational opportunities to minority students in the field related to computational science.

  15. Howard University Engineers Success: Interdisciplinary Study Keeps Howard on the Cutting Edge

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chew, Cassie M.

    2004-01-01

    According to Engineering Workforce Commission annual reports, in 1999 Howard University graduated 108 students, 92 of whom were African American, in its chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering programs and computer science programs. After two more years of graduating approximately 100 students across programs, in 2002, according to…

  16. The Impact of Different Teaching Approaches and Languages on Student Learning of Introductory Programming Concepts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kunkle, Wanda M.

    2010-01-01

    Many students experience difficulties learning to program. They find learning to program in the object-oriented paradigm particularly challenging. As a result, computing educators have tried a variety of instructional methods to assist beginning programmers. These include developing approaches geared specifically toward novices and experimenting…

  17. Program Evolves from Basic CAD to Total Manufacturing Experience

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cassola, Joel

    2011-01-01

    Close to a decade ago, John Hersey High School (JHHS) in Arlington Heights, Illinois, made a transition from a traditional classroom-based pre-engineering program. The new program is geared towards helping students understand the entire manufacturing process. Previously, a JHHS student would design a project in computer-aided design (CAD) software…

  18. PlayIt: Game Based Learning Approach for Teaching Programming Concepts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mathrani, Anuradha; Christian, Shelly; Ponder-Sutton, Agate

    2016-01-01

    This study demonstrates a game-based learning (GBL) approach to engage students in learning and enhance their programming skills. The paper gives a detailed narrative of how an educational game was mapped with the curriculum of a prescribed programming course in a computing diploma study programme. Two separate student cohorts were invited to…

  19. Educate at Penn State: Preparing Beginning Teachers with Powerful Digital Tools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Murray, Orrin T.; Zembal-Saul, Carla

    2008-01-01

    University based teacher education programs are slowly beginning to catch up to other professional programs that use modern digital tools to prepare students to enter professional fields. This discussion looks at how one teacher education program reached the conclusion that students and faculty would use notebook computers. Frequently referred to…

  20. StarLogo TNG

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Klopfer, Eric; Scheintaub, Hal; Huang, Wendy; Wendel, Daniel

    Computational approaches to science are radically altering the nature of scientific investigatiogn. Yet these computer programs and simulations are sparsely used in science education, and when they are used, they are typically “canned” simulations which are black boxes to students. StarLogo The Next Generation (TNG) was developed to make programming of simulations more accessible for students and teachers. StarLogo TNG builds on the StarLogo tradition of agent-based modeling for students and teachers, with the added features of a graphical programming environment and a three-dimensional (3D) world. The graphical programming environment reduces the learning curve of programming, especially syntax. The 3D graphics make for a more immersive and engaging experience for students, including making it easy to design and program their own video games. Another change to StarLogo TNG is a fundamental restructuring of the virtual machine to make it more transparent. As a result of these changes, classroom use of TNG is expanding to new areas. This chapter is concluded with a description of field tests conducted in middle and high school science classes.

  1. The Effects of Embedded Generative Learning Strategies and Collaboration on Knowledge Acquisition in a Cognitive Flexibility-Based Computer Learning Environment

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1998-08-07

    cognitive flexibility theory and generative learning theory which focus primarily on the individual student’s cognitive development , collaborative... develop "Handling Transfusion Hazards," a computer program based upon cognitive flexibility theory principles. The Program: Handling Transfusion Hazards...computer program was developed according to cognitive flexibility theory principles. A generative version was then developed by embedding

  2. The Effect of a Computer Program Designed with Constructivist Principles for College Non-Science Majors on Understanding of Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wielard, Valerie Michelle

    2013-01-01

    The primary objective of this project was to learn what effect a computer program would have on academic achievement and attitude toward science of college students enrolled in a biology class for non-science majors. It became apparent that the instructor also had an effect on attitudes toward science. The researcher designed a computer program,…

  3. Programming Pluralism: Using Learning Analytics to Detect Patterns in the Learning of Computer Programming

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blikstein, Paulo; Worsley, Marcelo; Piech, Chris; Sahami, Mehran; Cooper, Steven; Koller, Daphne

    2014-01-01

    New high-frequency, automated data collection and analysis algorithms could offer new insights into complex learning processes, especially for tasks in which students have opportunities to generate unique open-ended artifacts such as computer programs. These approaches should be particularly useful because the need for scalable project-based and…

  4. The Use of a Computer-Based Writing Program: Facilitation or Frustration?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chen, Chi-Fen Emily; Cheng, Wei-Yuan

    2006-01-01

    The invention of computer-based writing program has revolutionized the way of teaching second language writing. Embedded with artificial intelligence scoring engine, it can provide students with both immediate score and diagnostic feedback on their essays. In addition, some of such programs offer convenient writing and editing tools to facilitate…

  5. Dr. Sanger's Apprentice: A Computer-Aided Instruction to Protein Sequencing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schmidt, Thomas G.; Place, Allen R.

    1985-01-01

    Modeled after the program "Mastermind," this program teaches students the art of protein sequencing. The program (written in Turbo Pascal for the IBM PC, requiring 128K, a graphics adapter, and an 8070 mathematics coprocessor) generates a polypeptide whose sequence and length can be user-defined (for practice) or computer-generated (for…

  6. Control Robotics Programming Technology. Technology Learning Activity. Teacher Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Oklahoma State Dept. of Vocational and Technical Education, Stillwater. Curriculum and Instructional Materials Center.

    This Technology Learning Activity (TLA) for control robotics programming technology in grades 6-10 is designed to teach students to construct and program computer-controlled devices using a LEGO DACTA set and computer interface and to help them understand how control technology and robotics affect them and their lifestyle. The suggested time for…

  7. A CS1 pedagogical approach to parallel thinking

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rague, Brian William

    Almost all collegiate programs in Computer Science offer an introductory course in programming primarily devoted to communicating the foundational principles of software design and development. The ACM designates this introduction to computer programming course for first-year students as CS1, during which methodologies for solving problems within a discrete computational context are presented. Logical thinking is highlighted, guided primarily by a sequential approach to algorithm development and made manifest by typically using the latest, commercially successful programming language. In response to the most recent developments in accessible multicore computers, instructors of these introductory classes may wish to include training on how to design workable parallel code. Novel issues arise when programming concurrent applications which can make teaching these concepts to beginning programmers a seemingly formidable task. Student comprehension of design strategies related to parallel systems should be monitored to ensure an effective classroom experience. This research investigated the feasibility of integrating parallel computing concepts into the first-year CS classroom. To quantitatively assess student comprehension of parallel computing, an experimental educational study using a two-factor mixed group design was conducted to evaluate two instructional interventions in addition to a control group: (1) topic lecture only, and (2) topic lecture with laboratory work using a software visualization Parallel Analysis Tool (PAT) specifically designed for this project. A new evaluation instrument developed for this study, the Perceptions of Parallelism Survey (PoPS), was used to measure student learning regarding parallel systems. The results from this educational study show a statistically significant main effect among the repeated measures, implying that student comprehension levels of parallel concepts as measured by the PoPS improve immediately after the delivery of any initial three-week CS1 level module when compared with student comprehension levels just prior to starting the course. Survey results measured during the ninth week of the course reveal that performance levels remained high compared to pre-course performance scores. A second result produced by this study reveals no statistically significant interaction effect between the intervention method and student performance as measured by the evaluation instrument over three separate testing periods. However, visual inspection of survey score trends and the low p-value generated by the interaction analysis (0.062) indicate that further studies may verify improved concept retention levels for the lecture w/PAT group.

  8. Computer-Assisted Instruction: Decision Handbook.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-04-01

    to feelings of " depersonalization " or "dehumanization." The approach is to document investigations of attitudes toward CBI held by students and...utilized within a computer-based training system that includes management of student progress, training resources, testing, and instructional materials...training time. As compared to programmed texts and workbookl, students were more attentive and stayed on task. The attentiveness to PLATO materials

  9. The Use of Computer-Based Data Banks in the Teaching of Clinical Problem-Solving and Medical Case Management to Veterinary Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Conzelman, Gaylord M.; And Others

    1975-01-01

    Describes a program at the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California at Davis to give students experience in diagnosis and management of urinary tract diseases. Students request from computer data banks that laboratory information they deem most useful in the medical management of each clinical problem. (JT)

  10. Randomized study of different anti-stigma media.

    PubMed

    Finkelstein, Joseph; Lapshin, Oleg; Wasserman, Evgeny

    2008-05-01

    We designed our study to assess if computer-assisted anti-stigma interventions can be effective in reducing the level of psychiatric stigma in a sample of special education university students. We enrolled 193 graduate students. They had two study visits with an interval of 6 months. The participants were randomly distributed into three study groups: 76 students read anti-stigma printed materials (reading group, RG), and 69 studied an anti-stigma computer program (program group, PG), and 48 students were in a control group (CG) and received no intervention. We used the Bogardus scale of social distance (BSSD), the community attitudes toward the mentally ill (CAMI) questionnaire, and the psychiatric knowledge survey (PKS) as the main outcome measures. After the intervention BSSD, CAMI and PKS scores significantly improved both in RG and PG. After 6 months in RG two out of three CAMI subscales and PKS scores were not different from the baseline. In PG all stigma and knowledge changes remained significant. This study demonstrated that computers can be an effective mean in changing attitudes of students toward psychiatric patients. A computer-mediated intervention has the potential for educating graduate students about mental disease and for reducing psychiatric stigma.

  11. Exploring the Effects of Gender and Learning Styles on Computer Programming Performance: Implications for Programming Pedagogy

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lau, Wilfred W. F.; Yuen, Allan H. K.

    2009-01-01

    Computer programming has been taught in secondary schools for more than two decades. However, little is known about how students learn to program. From the curriculum implementation perspectives, learning style helps address the issue of learner differences, resulting in a shift from a teacher-centred approach to a learner-focused approach. This…

  12. Turkish Teachers' and Students' Perceptions towards Computer Assisted Testing in Comparison with Spanish Teachers' and Students' Perceptions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berber, Aslihan; García Laborda, Jesús

    2015-01-01

    There are different opinions about using technology in the assessment field of education regarding computer-assisted assessments. People have some concerns such as its application, reliability and so on. It seems that those concerns may decrease with the developing technology in the following years since computer-based testing programs are…

  13. Using Alice 2.0 to Design Games for People with Stroke.

    PubMed

    Proffitt, Rachel; Kelleher, Caitlin; Baum, M Carolyn; Engsberg, Jack

    2012-08-01

    Computer and videogames are gaining in popularity as rehabilitation tools. Unfortunately, most systems still require extensive programming/engineering knowledge to create, something that therapists, as novice programmers, do not possess. There is software designed to allow novice programmers to create storyboard and games through simple drag-and-drop formats; however, the applications for therapeutic game development have not been studied. The purpose of this study was to have an occupational therapy (OT) student with no prior computer programming experience learn how to create computer games for persons with stroke using Alice 2.0, a drag-and-drop editor, designed by Carnegie Mellon University (Pittsburgh, PA). The OT student learned how to use Alice 2.0 through a textbook, tutorials, and assistance from computer science students. She kept a journal of her process, detailing her successes and challenges. The OT student created three games for people with stroke using Alice 2.0. She found that although there were many supports in Alice for creating stories, it lacked critical pieces necessary for game design. Her recommendations for a future programming environment for therapists were that it (1) be efficient, (2) include basic game design pieces so therapists do not have to create them, (3) provide technical support, and (4) be simple. With the incorporation of these recommendations, a future programming environment for therapists will be an effective tool for therapeutic game development.

  14. SIP: A Web-Based Astronomical Image Processing Program

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simonetti, J. H.

    1999-12-01

    I have written an astronomical image processing and analysis program designed to run over the internet in a Java-compatible web browser. The program, Sky Image Processor (SIP), is accessible at the SIP webpage (http://www.phys.vt.edu/SIP). Since nothing is installed on the user's machine, there is no need to download upgrades; the latest version of the program is always instantly available. Furthermore, the Java programming language is designed to work on any computer platform (any machine and operating system). The program could be used with students in web-based instruction or in a computer laboratory setting; it may also be of use in some research or outreach applications. While SIP is similar to other image processing programs, it is unique in some important respects. For example, SIP can load images from the user's machine or from the Web. An instructor can put images on a web server for students to load and analyze on their own personal computer. Or, the instructor can inform the students of images to load from any other web server. Furthermore, since SIP was written with students in mind, the philosophy is to present the user with the most basic tools necessary to process and analyze astronomical images. Images can be combined (by addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division), multiplied by a constant, smoothed, cropped, flipped, rotated, and so on. Statistics can be gathered for pixels within a box drawn by the user. Basic tools are available for gathering data from an image which can be used for performing simple differential photometry, or astrometry. Therefore, students can learn how astronomical image processing works. Since SIP is not part of a commercial CCD camera package, the program is written to handle the most common denominator image file, the FITS format.

  15. Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs: College Student Satisfaction with an Interactive Educational Software Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rotunda, Rob J.; West, Laura; Epstein, Joel

    2003-01-01

    Alcohol and drug use education and prevention continue to be core educational issues. In seeking to inform students at all levels about drug use, the present exploratory study highlights the potential educational use of interactive computer programs for this purpose. Seventy-three college students from two substance abuse classes interacted for at…

  16. Competency Gauged Writing Activities for Middle Grade Students Prompted by Needs of Technology Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Adams, Jan; And Others

    A cooperative program conducted by the Logan (Utah) City School District and IBM Corporation used computers in the classroom to develop new teaching and career guidance approaches while enhancing students' process writing skills. The program included units designed for student and teacher awareness of the impacts of technology, the need for a new…

  17. The Impact of an Interdisciplinary Space Program on Computer Science Student Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Straub, Jeremy; Marsh, Ronald; Whalen, David

    2015-01-01

    Project-based learning and interdisciplinary projects present an opportunity for students to learn both technical skills and other skills which are relevant to their workplace success. This paper presents an assessment of the educational impact of the OpenOrbiter program, a student-run, interdisciplinary CubeSat (a type of small satellite with…

  18. Enhancing Practice and Achievement in Introductory Programming with a Robot Olympics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Scott, Michael James; Counsell, Steve; Lauria, Stanislao; Swift, Stephen; Tucker, Allan; Shepperd, Martin; Ghinea, Gheorghita

    2015-01-01

    Computer programming is notoriously difficult to learn. To this end, regular practice in the form of application and reflection is an important enabler of student learning. However, educators often find that first-year B.Sc. students do not readily engage in such activities. Providing each student with a programmable robot, however, could be used…

  19. Computer Tree

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Agaoglu, Onur

    2014-01-01

    It is crucial that gifted and talented students should be supported by different educational methods for their interests and skills. The science and arts centres (gifted centres) provide the Supportive Education Program for these students with an interdisciplinary perspective. In line with the program, an ICT lesson entitled "Computer…

  20. PLATO--AN AUTOMATED TEACHING DEVICE.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    BITZER, D.; AND OTHERS

    PLATO (PROGRAMED LOGIC FOR AUTOMATIC TEACHING OPERATION) IS A DEVICE FOR TEACHING A NUMBER OF STUDENTS INDIVIDUALLY BY MEANS OF A SINGLE, CENTRAL PURPOSE, DIGITAL COMPUTER. THE GENERAL ORGANIZATION OF EQUIPMENT CONSISTS OF A KEYSET FOR STUDENT RESPONSES, THE COMPUTER, STORAGE DEVICE (ELECTRIC BLACKBOARD), SLIDE SELECTOR (ELECTRICAL BOOK), AND TV…

  1. Computer Starters!

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Instructor, 1983

    1983-01-01

    Instructor's Computer-Using Teachers Board members give practical tips on how to get a classroom ready for a new computer, introduce students to the machine, and help them learn about programing and computer literacy. Safety, scheduling, and supervision requirements are noted. (PP)

  2. Persistence of Elementary Programming Skills

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bennedsen, Jens; Caspersen, Michael E.

    2012-01-01

    Programming is recognised as one of seven grand challenges in computing education and attracts much attention in computing education research. Most research in the area concerns teaching methods, educational technology and student understanding/misconceptions. Typically, evaluation of learning outcome takes place during or immediately following…

  3. An Evaluation of Micro PLATO Fortran 77 Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Funk, Kenneth; And Others

    1986-01-01

    Evaluated the use of computer assisted instruction in teaching Fortran 77 in the College of Engineering at Oregon State University. Also investigated the effect of such factors as mathematics and computer programming background on student performance in an introductory programming course sequence. (JN)

  4. CNC Programming I.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Casey, Joe

    This document contains five units for a course in computer numerical control (CNC) for computer-aided manufacturing. It is intended to familiarize students with the principles and techniques necessary to create proper CNC programs manually. Each unit consists of an introduction, instructional objectives, learning materials, learning activities,…

  5. Computer-Assisted Programmed Instruction in Textiles.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kean, Rita C.; Laughlin, Joan

    Students in an introductory textiles course at the University of Nebraska's College of Home Economics actively participate in the learning experience through a self-paced instructional technique. Specific learning packets were developed adapting programmed instructional learning materials to computer assisted instruction (CAI). A study booklet…

  6. A Review of Resources for Evaluating K-12 Computer Science Education Programs

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Randolph, Justus J.; Hartikainen, Elina

    2004-01-01

    Since computer science education is a key to preparing students for a technologically-oriented future, it makes sense to have high quality resources for conducting summative and formative evaluation of those programs. This paper describes the results of a critical analysis of the resources for evaluating K-12 computer science education projects.…

  7. Encouraging More Women into Computer Science: Initiating a Single-Sex Intervention Program in Sweden.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brandell, Gerd; Carlsson, Svante; Eklbom, Hakan; Nord, Ann-Charlotte

    1997-01-01

    Describes the process of starting a new program in computer science and engineering that is heavily based on applied mathematics and only open to women. Emphasizes that success requires considerable interest in mathematics and curiosity about computer science among female students at the secondary level and the acceptance of the single-sex program…

  8. CHEMEX; Understanding and Solving Problems in Chemistry. A Computer-Assisted Instruction Program for General Chemistry.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lower, Stephen K.

    A brief overview of CHEMEX--a problem-solving, tutorial style computer-assisted instructional course--is provided and sample problems are offered. In CHEMEX, students receive problems in advance and attempt to solve them before moving through the computer program, which assists them in overcoming difficulties and serves as a review mechanism.…

  9. The Nature-Computer Camp. Final Evaluation Report, 1982-1983. E.C.I.A. Chapter 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    District of Columbia Public Schools, Washington, DC. Div. of Quality Assurance.

    This report presents a description and evaluation of the Nature-Computer Camp (NCC), an environmental and computer science program designed for sixth grade students in the District of Columbia public schools. Among the major components of the program were: planning for administration of operating the camp and for instruction in environmental…

  10. A Comparison of the Effects of Lego TC Logo and Problem Solving Software on Elementary Students' Problem Solving Skills.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Palumbo, Debra L; Palumbo, David B.

    1993-01-01

    Computer-based problem-solving software exposure was compared to Lego TC LOGO instruction. Thirty fifth graders received either Lego LOGO instruction, which couples Lego building block activities with LOGO computer programming, or instruction with various problem-solving computer programs. Although both groups showed significant progress, the Lego…

  11. Mobile game development: improving student engagement and motivation in introductory computing courses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kurkovsky, Stan

    2013-06-01

    Computer games have been accepted as an engaging and motivating tool in the computer science (CS) curriculum. However, designing and implementing a playable game is challenging, and is best done in advanced courses. Games for mobile devices, on the other hand, offer the advantage of being simpler and, thus, easier to program for lower level students. Learning context of mobile game development can be used to reinforce many core programming topics, such as loops, classes, and arrays. Furthermore, it can also be used to expose students in introductory computing courses to a wide range of advanced topics in order to illustrate that CS can be much more than coding. This paper describes the author's experience with using mobile game development projects in CS I and II, how these projects were integrated into existing courses at several universities, and the lessons learned from this experience.

  12. Fostering Girls' Computer Literacy through Laptop Learning: Can Mobile Computers Help To Level Out the Gender Difference?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schaumburg, Heike

    The goal of this study was to find out if the difference between boys and girls in computer literacy can be leveled out in a laptop program where each student has his/her own mobile computer to work with at home and at school. Ninth grade students (n=113) from laptop and non-laptop classes in a German high school were tested for their computer…

  13. Perceptions and performance using computer-based testing: One institution's experience.

    PubMed

    Bloom, Timothy J; Rich, Wesley D; Olson, Stephanie M; Adams, Michael L

    2018-02-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate student and faculty perceptions of the transition to a required computer-based testing format and to identify any impact of this transition on student exam performance. Separate questionnaires sent to students and faculty asked about perceptions of and problems with computer-based testing. Exam results from program-required courses for two years prior to and two years following the adoption of computer-based testing were compared to determine if this testing format impacted student performance. Responses to Likert-type questions about perceived ease of use showed no difference between students with one and three semesters experience with computer-based testing. Of 223 student-reported problems, 23% related to faculty training with the testing software. Students most commonly reported improved feedback (46% of responses) and ease of exam-taking (17% of responses) as benefits to computer-based testing. Faculty-reported difficulties were most commonly related to problems with student computers during an exam (38% of responses) while the most commonly identified benefit was collecting assessment data (32% of responses). Neither faculty nor students perceived an impact on exam performance due to computer-based testing. An analysis of exam grades confirmed there was no consistent performance difference between the paper and computer-based formats. Both faculty and students rapidly adapted to using computer-based testing. There was no evidence that switching to computer-based testing had any impact on student exam performance. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Knowledge and attitude about computer and internet usage among dental students in Western Rajasthan, India.

    PubMed

    Jali, Pramod K; Singh, Shamsher; Babaji, Prashant; Chaurasia, Vishwajit Rampratap; Somasundaram, P; Lau, Himani

    2014-01-01

    Internet is a useful tool to update the knowledge. The aim of the present study was to assess the current level of knowledge on the computer and internet among under graduate dental students. The study consists of self-administered close ended questionnaire survey. Questionnaires were distributed to undergraduate dental students. The study was conducted during July to September 2012. In the selected samples, response rate was 100%. Most (94.4%) of the students had computer knowledge and 77.4% had their own computer and access at home. Nearly 40.8% of students use computer for general purpose, 28.5% for entertainment and 22.8% used for research purpose. Most of the students had internet knowledge (92.9%) and they used it independently (79.1%). Nearly 42.1% used internet occasionally whereas, 34.4% used regularly, 21.7% rarely and 1.8% don't use respectively. Internet was preferred for getting information (48.8%) due to easy accessibility and recent updates. For dental purpose students used internet 2-3 times/week (45.3%). Most (95.3%) of the students responded to have computer based learning program in the curriculum. Computer knowledge was observed to be good among dental students.

  15. The impact of haptic feedback on students' conceptions of the cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Minogue, James

    2005-07-01

    The purpose of this study was to investigate the efficacy of adding haptic (sense of touch) feedback to computer generated visualizations for use in middle school science instruction. Current technology allows for the simulation of tactile and kinesthetic sensations via haptic devices and a computer interface. This study, conducted with middle school students (n = 80), explored the cognitive and affective impacts of this innovative technology on students' conceptions of the cell and the process of passive transport. A pretest-posttest control group design was used and participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups (n = 40 for each). Both groups experienced the same core computer-mediated instructional program. This Cell Exploration program engaged students in a 3-D immersive environment that allowed them to actively investigate the form and function of a typical animal cell including its major organelles. The program also engaged students in a study of the structure and function of the cell membrane as it pertains to the process of passive transport and the mechanisms behind the membrane's selective permeability. As they conducted their investigations, students in the experimental group received bi-modal visual and haptic (simulated tactile and kinesthetic) feedback whereas the control group students experienced the program with only visual stimuli. A battery of assessments, including objective and open-ended written response items as well as a haptic performance assessment, were used to gather quantitative and qualitative data regarding changes in students' understandings of the cell concepts prior to and following their completion of the instructional program. Additionally, the impact of haptics on the affective domain of students' learning was assessed using a post-experience semi-structured interview and an attitudinal survey. Results showed that students from both conditions (Visual-Only and Visual + Haptic) found the instructional program interesting and engaging. Additionally, the vast majority of the students reported that they learned a lot about and were more interested in the topic due to their participation. Moreover, students who received the bi-modal (Visual + Haptic) feedback indicated that they experienced lower levels of frustration and spatial disorientation as they conducted their investigations when compared to individuals that relied solely on vision. There were no significant differences measured across the treatment groups on the cognitive assessment items. Despite this finding, the study provided valuable insight into the theoretical and practical considerations involved in the development of multimodal instructional programs.

  16. A Study of College Students' Construct of Parameter Passing Implications for Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Madison, Sandra Kay

    Parameter passing is the mechanism by which various program modules share information in a complex program; this paper was a study of novice programmers' understanding of the parameter construct. The bulk of the data was collected from interviews with eight college students enrolled in a state university introductory computer programming course.…

  17. The TeachScheme! Project: Computing and Programming for Every Student

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Felleisen, Matthias; Findler, Robert Bruce; Flatt, Matthew; Krishnamurthi, Shriram

    2004-01-01

    The TeachScheme! Project aims to reform three aspects of introductory programming courses in secondary schools. First, we use a design method that asks students to develop programs in a stepwise fashion such that each step produces a well-specified intermediate product. Second, we use an entire series of sublanguages, not just one. Each element of…

  18. Project DATA-TECH. 1990-91 Final Evaluation Profile. OREA Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    New York City Board of Education, Brooklyn, NY. Office of Research, Evaluation, and Assessment.

    An evaluation was done of New York City Public Schools' Project DATA-TECH, which served limited English proficient high school students interested in computer-aided drafting (CAD) and cosmetology programs. The program served 190 students at Sara J. Hale High School in Brooklyn, of whom 89.5 percent were eligible for the Free Lunch Program and most…

  19. Assessing the Impact of Meta-Cognitive Training on Students' Understanding of Introductory Programming Concepts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cetin, Ibrahim; Sendurur, Emine; Sendurur, Polat

    2014-01-01

    Students' difficulties in learning computer programming are well documented in the literature and have been studied from different perspectives by the researchers. However, studies that have been conducted from the meta-cognition perspective are rare in the context of programming education. The current study aimed to (i) investigate the effects of…

  20. Visual Basic Programming Impact on Cognitive Style of College Students: Need for Prerequisites

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    White, Garry L.

    2012-01-01

    This research investigated the impact learning a visual programming language, Visual Basic, has on hemispheric cognitive style, as measured by the Hemispheric Mode Indicator (HMI). The question to be answered is: will a computer programming course help students improve their cognitive abilities in order to perform well? The cognitive styles for…

  1. Effects of Pascal and FORTRAN Programming on the Problem-Solving Abilities of College Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Choi, Won Sik; Repman, Judi

    1993-01-01

    Describes a study that was conducted to determine whether learning to program a computer in Pascal or FORTRAN improved problem-solving skills of college students when compared to a control group and to determine which programing language was more effective in the development of problem-solving abilities. (26 references) (LRW)

  2. Learning to Program with Personal Robots: Influences on Student Motivation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McGill, Monica M.

    2012-01-01

    One of the goals of using robots in introductory programming courses is to increase motivation among learners. There have been several types of robots that have been used extensively in the classroom to teach a variety of computer science concepts. A more recently introduced robot designed to teach programming to novice students is the Institute…

  3. Computer Center. Interactive Biology with Videodisc.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kramer, David W.

    1991-01-01

    Ways in which students are allowed to choose, based on their curiosity at the moment, which way they will move through a lesson are described. Available software for interactive biology programs and available authoring software for developing interactive programs by teachers and students are listed. (KR)

  4. An Interactive Multimedia Software Program for Exploring Electrochemical Cells.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Greenbowe, Thomas J.

    1994-01-01

    Describes computer-animated sequences and interactive multimedia instructional programs for use in introductory chemistry which allow students to explore electrochemical cells. The workbench section enables students to manipulate the experimental apparatus, chemicals, and instruments in order to design and build an experiment. The interactive…

  5. UNIX Writer's Workbench: Software for Streamlined Communication.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Frase, Lawrence T; Diel, Mary

    1986-01-01

    Discusses computer editing and describes the capacities and features of an integrated software package, Writer's Workbench. Suggests ways in which this program can be used to improve writing skills. Reviews the effects of this program on technical users, college students, and high school students. (ML)

  6. Microcomputer Programs for Health Occupations Education. A Bibliography.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Florida State Univ., Tallahassee. Center for Instructional Development and Services.

    This annotated bibliography describes materials available for computer-assisted instruction in secondary and postsecondary health and allied health programs. The materials are suitable for use by regular, disadvantaged, and handicapped students and by students whose facility in English is limited. The bibliography includes software programs…

  7. The Effect of Problem-Solving Instruction on the Programming Self-efficacy and Achievement of Introductory Computer Science Students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maddrey, Elizabeth

    Research in academia and industry continues to identify a decline in enrollment in computer science. One major component of this decline in enrollment is a shortage of female students. The primary reasons for the gender gap presented in the research include lack of computer experience prior to their first year in college, misconceptions about the field, negative cultural stereotypes, lack of female mentors and role models, subtle discriminations in the classroom, and lack of self-confidence (Pollock, McCoy, Carberry, Hundigopal, & You, 2004). Male students are also leaving the field due to misconceptions about the field, negative cultural stereotypes, and a lack of self-confidence. Analysis of first year attrition revealed that one of the major challenges faced by students of both genders is a lack of problem-solving skills (Beaubouef, Lucas & Howatt, 2001; Olsen, 2005; Paxton & Mumey, 2001). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether specific, non-mathematical problem-solving instruction as part of introductory programming courses significantly increased computer programming self-efficacy and achievement of students. The results of this study showed that students in the experimental group had significantly higher achievement than students in the control group. While this shows statistical significance, due to the effect size and disordinal nature of the data between groups, care has to be taken in its interpretation. The study did not show significantly higher programming self-efficacy among the experimental students. There was not enough data collected to statistically analyze the effect of the treatment on self-efficacy and achievement by gender. However, differences in means were observed between the gender groups, with females in the experimental group demonstrating a higher than average degree of self-efficacy when compared with males in the experimental group and both genders in the control group. These results suggest that the treatment from this study may provide a gender-based increase in self-efficacy and future research should focus on exploring this possibility.

  8. What the Computer Taught Me About My Students...or Is Binary Search "Natural"?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pasquino, Anne

    1978-01-01

    Several examples of student-written programs "teaching" a computer to guess systematically in finding a number between 0 and 10,000 are illustrated. These lend support to the contention that rather than being a "natural" application, using a binary search is a learned technique. (MN)

  9. Active and Collaborative Learning in an Introductory Electrical and Computer Engineering Course

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kotru, Sushma; Burkett, Susan L.; Jackson, David Jeff

    2010-01-01

    Active and collaborative learning instruments were introduced into an introductory electrical and computer engineering course. These instruments were designed to assess specific learning objectives and program outcomes. Results show that students developed an understanding comparable to that of more advanced students assessed later in the…

  10. Grammar as a Programming Language. Artificial Intelligence Memo 391.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rowe, Neil

    Student projects that involve writing generative grammars in the computer language, "LOGO," are described in this paper, which presents a grammar-running control structure that allows students to modify and improve the grammar interpreter itself while learning how a simple kind of computer parser works. Included are procedures for…

  11. Where's the C in STEM?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Heldman, Bill

    2010-01-01

    With few exceptions, students interact with technology in one way or another every day. And yet, in most U.S. schools, the term "computer science" (CS) refers only to generic skills classes, such as keyboarding and computer applications. Even most Web programming classes usually teach students only how to use conventional graphical user…

  12. Advances in Computer-Supported Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Neto, Francisco; Brasileiro, Francisco

    2007-01-01

    The Internet and growth of computer networks have eliminated geographic barriers, creating an environment where education can be brought to a student no matter where that student may be. The success of distance learning programs and the availability of many Web-supported applications and multimedia resources have increased the effectiveness of…

  13. Web-Compatible Graphics Visualization Framework for Online Instruction and Assessment of Hardware Concepts

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chandramouli, Magesh; Chittamuru, Siva-Teja

    2016-01-01

    This paper explains the design of a graphics-based virtual environment for instructing computer hardware concepts to students, especially those at the beginner level. Photorealistic visualizations and simulations are designed and programmed with interactive features allowing students to practice, explore, and test themselves on computer hardware…

  14. Applications of Parsing Theory to Computer-Assisted Instruction.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Markosian, Lawrence Z.; Ager, Tryg A.

    1983-01-01

    Applications of an LR-1 parsing algorithm to intelligent programs for computer assisted instruction in symbolic logic and foreign languages are discussed. The system has been adequately used for diverse instructional applications, including analysis of student input, generation of pattern drills, and modeling the student's understanding of the…

  15. A Contribution of the Computer to Biology Education at the University.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Anxolabehere, D.; And Others

    1980-01-01

    Described is part of the O.P.E. laboratory computer-based biology program designed for undergraduate medical and biology students. Described is an embryology dialogue in which the student proceeds through three stages in the knowledge and understanding of the concept of competence. (Author/DS)

  16. Computer Programming Effects in Elementary: Perceptions and Career Aspirations in STEM

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tran, Yune

    2018-01-01

    The development of elementary-aged students' STEM and computer science (CS) literacy is critical in this evolving technological landscape, thus, promoting success for college, career, and STEM/CS professional paths. Research has suggested that elementary-aged students need developmentally appropriate STEM integrated opportunities in the classroom;…

  17. Enhancing Student Engagement: A Group Case Study Approach

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taneja, Aakash

    2014-01-01

    Computing professionals work in groups and collaborate with individuals having diverse backgrounds and behaviors. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) characterizes that a computing program must enable students to attain the ability to analyze a problem, design and evaluate a solution, and work effectively on teams to…

  18. Mapping University Students' Epistemic Framing of Computational Physics Using Network Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bodin, Madelen

    2012-01-01

    Solving physics problem in university physics education using a computational approach requires knowledge and skills in several domains, for example, physics, mathematics, programming, and modeling. These competences are in turn related to students' beliefs about the domains as well as about learning. These knowledge and beliefs components are…

  19. Designing a Network and Systems Computing Curriculum: The Stakeholders and the Issues

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Tan, Grace; Venables, Anne

    2010-01-01

    Since 2001, there has been a dramatic decline in Information Technology and Computer Science student enrolments worldwide. As a consequence, many institutions have evaluated their offerings and revamped their programs to include units designed to capture students' interests and increase subsequent enrolment. Likewise, at Victoria University the…

  20. Handheld Computers in Education. Research Brief

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Education Partnerships, Inc., 2003

    2003-01-01

    For over the last 20 years, educators have been trying to find the best practice in using technology for student learning. Some of the most widely used applications with computers have been student learning of programming, word processing, Web research, spreadsheets, games, and Web design. The difficulty with integrating many of these activities…

  1. Response to Dr. Smith's Comments and Criticisms Concerning "Identification of Student Misconceptions in Genetics Problem Solving via Computer Program."

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Browning, Mark; Lehman, James D.

    1991-01-01

    Authors respond to criticisms by Smith in the same issue and defend their use of the term "gene" and "misconception." Authors indicate that they did not believe that the use of computers significantly skewed their data concerning student errors. (PR)

  2. TEACHING ENGINEERING DESIGN, A STUDY OF JOBSHOP.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ENTWISLE, DORIS R.; HUGGINS, W.H.

    THE USE OF A COMPUTER PROGRAM BY ENGINEERING STUDENTS TO SIMULATE A JOB SHOP THAT MANUFACTURES ELECTRONIC DEVICES HAS INDICATED THAT SIMULATION METHODS OFFER REALISTIC ASSISTANCE IN TEACHING. EACH STUDENT IN THE STUDY SUBMITTED SPECIFICATIONS FOR A CIRCUIT DESIGN AND, FROM THE COMPUTER, RECEIVED PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENTS OF THE CIRCUIT WHICH…

  3. A Methodological Study Evaluating a Pretutorial Computer-Compiled Instructional Program in High School Physics Instruction Initiated from Student-Teacher Selected Instructional Objectives. Final Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Leonard, B. Charles; Denton, Jon J.

    A study sought to develop and evaluate an instructional model which utilized the computer to produce individually prescribed instructional guides to account for the idiosyncratic variations among students in physics classes at the secondary school level. The students in the treatment groups were oriented toward the practices of selecting…

  4. Researchers Weigh Benefits of One Computer per Lap: Studies Aim to Determine the Impact the Technology Has on Student Learning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Borja, Rhea R.

    2006-01-01

    Almost one-quarter of school districts nationwide and nine states have invested millions of dollars in "one-to-one" laptop programs, hoping the availability of a computer for every student will improve achievement and other skills. They made those investments despite the fact that research on the impact of such technology on student achievement is…

  5. Does the Computer-Assisted Remedial Mathematics Program at Kearny High School Lead to Improved Scores on the N.J. Early Warning Test?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schalago-Schirm, Cynthia

    Eighth-grade students in New Jersey take the Early Warning Test (EWT), which involves reading, writing, and mathematics. Students with EWT scores below the state level of competency take a remedial mathematics course that provides students with computer-assisted instruction (2 days per week) as well as regular classroom instruction (3 days per…

  6. An Annotated Bibliography of Current Literature Dealing with the Effective Teaching of Computer Programming in High Schools.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Karen A.

    This review of the literature and annotated bibliography summarizes the available research relating to teaching programming to high school students. It is noted that, while the process of programming a computer could be broken down into five steps--problem definition, algorithm design, code writing, debugging, and documentation--current research…

  7. The Impact on Future Guidance Programs of Current Developments in Computer Science, Telecommunications, and Biotechnology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mitchell, Lynda K.; Hardy, Philippe L.

    The purpose of this chapter is to envision how the era of technological revolution will affect the guidance, counseling, and student support programs of the future. Advances in computer science, telecommunications, and biotechnology are discussed. These advances have the potential to affect dramatically the services of guidance programs of the…

  8. Blindness and Computer Networking at iTEC [Information Technology Education Center].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Goins, Shannon

    A new program to train blind and visually impaired individuals to design and run a computer network has been developed. The program offers the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) training. The program, which began in February 2001, recently graduated its first class of students, who are currently completing 1-month internships to complete…

  9. Gender and Stereotypes in Motivation to Study Computer Programming for Careers in Multimedia

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Doube, Wendy; Lang, Catherine

    2012-01-01

    A multimedia university programme with relatively equal numbers of male and female students in elective programming subjects provided a rare opportunity to investigate female motivation to study and pursue computer programming in a career. The MSLQ was used to survey 85 participants. In common with research into deterrence of females from STEM…

  10. The Effects of Learning a Computer Programming Language on the Logical Reasoning of School Children.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seidman, Robert H.

    The research reported in this paper explores the syntactical and semantic link between computer programming statements and logical principles, and addresses the effects of learning a programming language on logical reasoning ability. Fifth grade students in a public school in Syracuse, New York, were randomly selected as subjects, and then…

  11. Laptops and the Gender Gap: An Investigation of a High School Core Curriculum Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wade, Melanie

    2010-01-01

    Girls and women continue to be underrepresented in high school Advanced Placement computer science courses, undergraduate and graduate computer science programs at colleges and universities, and engineering programs and related careers. This is not to suggest that public schools train students to fulfill specific job needs, yet it is evident that…

  12. A Problem Posing-Based Practicing Strategy for Facilitating Students' Computer Programming Skills in the Team-Based Learning Mode

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wang, Xiao-Ming; Hwang, Gwo-Jen

    2017-01-01

    Computer programming is a subject that requires problem-solving strategies and involves a great number of programming logic activities which pose challenges for learners. Therefore, providing learning support and guidance is important. Collaborative learning is widely believed to be an effective teaching approach; it can enhance learners' social…

  13. [Interactive computer-assisted learning program for diagnosis and therapy of recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis].

    PubMed

    Stehle, A; Gross, M

    1998-12-01

    With the increasing capacity of personal computers more and more multimedia training programs are becoming available which make use of these possibilities. Computer-based presentation is usually interesting because it is visually attractive. However, the extent to which computer-based training programs correspond to international standards of quality of software ergonomics has never been the subject of systematic research. Another question is how much these programs motivate learning and what increase in knowledge can be achieved by using them. Using a multimedia interactive training program developed in our facility, 100 medical students were asked to evaluate the program after they had been using it for about one hour. In a questionnaire they first rated suitability for the task, self-descriptiveness, controllability, conformity with user expectation, error tolerance, suitability for individualization, and suitability for learning on a bipolar scale from "---" to "+3" (in numbers 1, worst result, to 7, best result). The median values achieved were rated between 6.0 and 6.2--software ergonomic criteria of the program ranged from good to very good. The second part was a subjective evaluation of the program's ability to deliver "medical knowledge which is relevant for the exam" (median = 6.0), "knowledge about systematic procedure in medicine" (median = 5.5), "knowledge about sensible use of diagnostic methods" (median = 6.0), "knowledge about clinical methods", and "experience with selective learning" (median = 6.0). This part was also rated good to very good. The third part of the questionnaire involved a pretest-posttest comparison. Two groups of students were asked how much benefit they had achieved by using the program. It was shown that the students were able to answer the exam questions significantly better than the control questions after they had used the program. This study confirms that the interactive computer-based training program is very well suited for providing knowledge in on appealing manner in an instructional setting.

  14. Computers as Music Teachers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Jack A.

    1983-01-01

    Peripheral components for music instruction include a music keyboard, a digital music synthesizer, and music listening devices. Computers can teach sight-singing, playing an instrument, dictation, and composition. Computer programs should be interactive with students. (KC)

  15. Center for Computing Research Summer Research Proceedings 2015.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Bradley, Andrew Michael; Parks, Michael L.

    2015-12-18

    The Center for Computing Research (CCR) at Sandia National Laboratories organizes a summer student program each summer, in coordination with the Computer Science Research Institute (CSRI) and Cyber Engineering Research Institute (CERI).

  16. Activity: Computer Talk.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clearing: Nature and Learning in the Pacific Northwest, 1985

    1985-01-01

    Presents an activity in which students create a computer program capable of recording and projecting paper use at school. Includes instructional strategies and background information such as requirements for pounds of paper/tree, energy needs, water consumption, and paper value at the recycling center. A sample program is included. (DH)

  17. Computer Aided Instruction in Teaching Program Evaluation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dowell, David A.; Binette, Holly A. Lizotte

    This paper reports the results of two semesters of experience using computer-assisted instruction (CAI) to teach topics in program evaluation to undergraduate and graduate psychology students at California State University, Long Beach. (The topics addressed are models of evaluation, evaluability assessment, needs assessment, experimental and…

  18. The Talent Development Middle School. An Elective Replacement Approach to Providing Extra Help in Math--The CATAMA Program (Computer- and Team-Assisted Mathematics Acceleration). Report No. 21.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mac Iver, Douglas J.; Balfanz, Robert; Plank, Stephen B.

    In Talent Development Middle Schools, students needing extra help in mathematics participate in the Computer- and Team-Assisted Mathematics Acceleration (CATAMA) course. CATAMA is an innovative combination of computer-assisted instruction and structured cooperative learning that students receive in addition to their regular math course for about…

  19. Increasing Touch-Keyboarding Skills in the Middle School Student: "KeyWords" vs. "Type To Learn," Hand Covers vs. No Hand Covers.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Reagan, Steven Dallas

    A computer teacher in a middle school in East Tennessee observed that his students were entering the middle school program with computer familiarity but without the touch keyboarding skills necessary to operate the computer efficiently. It was also observed that even with instruction and practice using drill and practice keyboarding software, the…

  20. A Research Study of Computer-Based Tutoring of Mathematical and Scientific Knowledge. Final Technical Report.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Goldstein, Ira

    Computer coaching of students as an aid in problem-solving instruction is discussed. This report describes an advanced form of computer-assisted instruction that must not only present the material to be taught, but also analyze the student's responses. The program must decide whether to intervene and how much to say to a pupil based on its…

  1. Correcting Students' Misconceptions about Automobile Braking Distances and Video Analysis Using Interactive Program Tracker

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hockicko, Peter; Trpišová, Beáta; Ondruš, Ján

    2014-01-01

    The present paper informs about an analysis of students' conceptions about car braking distances and also presents one of the novel methods of learning: an interactive computer program Tracker that we used to analyse the process of braking of a car. The analysis of the students' conceptions about car braking distances consisted in…

  2. Educational Software for Interactive Training of Students on the Theme "Mutual Intersecting of Pyramids and Prisms in Axonometry"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Karaibryamov, Samet; Tsareva, Bistra; Zlatanov, Boyan

    2012-01-01

    This work acquaints with the program Sam for interactive computer training of students on the theme "Mutual intersecting of pyramids and prisms in axonometry". The program containing three modules--teacher, student and autopilot--allows for briefest time to teach and study the whole variety of the tasks on this theme. A classification of…

  3. Girls in computer science: A female only introduction class in high school

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Drobnis, Ann W.

    This study examined the impact of an all girls' classroom environment in a high school introductory computer science class on the student's attitudes towards computer science and their thoughts on future involvement with computer science. It was determined that an all girls' introductory class could impact the declining female enrollment and female students' efficacy towards computer science. This research was conducted in a summer school program through a regional magnet school for science and technology which these students attend during the school year. Three different groupings of students were examined for the research: female students in an all girls' class, female students in mixed-gender classes and male students in mixed-gender classes. A survey, Attitudes about Computers and Computer Science (ACCS), was designed to obtain an understanding of the students' thoughts, preconceptions, attitude, knowledge of computer science, and future intentions around computer science, both in education and career. Students in all three groups were administered the ACCS prior to taking the class and upon completion of the class. In addition, students in the all girls' class wrote in a journal throughout the course, and some of those students were also interviewed upon completion of the course. The data was analyzed using quantitative and qualitative techniques. While there were no major differences found in the quantitative data, it was determined that girls in the all girls' class were truly excited by what they had learned and were more open to the idea of computer science being a part of their future.

  4. 2015 Final Reports from the Los Alamos National Laboratory Computational Physics Student Summer Workshop

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Runnels, Scott Robert; Caldwell, Wendy; Brown, Barton Jed

    The two primary purposes of LANL’s Computational Physics Student Summer Workshop are (1) To educate graduate and exceptional undergraduate students in the challenges and applications of computational physics of interest to LANL, and (2) Entice their interest toward those challenges. Computational physics is emerging as a discipline in its own right, combining expertise in mathematics, physics, and computer science. The mathematical aspects focus on numerical methods for solving equations on the computer as well as developing test problems with analytical solutions. The physics aspects are very broad, ranging from low-temperature material modeling to extremely high temperature plasma physics, radiation transportmore » and neutron transport. The computer science issues are concerned with matching numerical algorithms to emerging architectures and maintaining the quality of extremely large codes built to perform multi-physics calculations. Although graduate programs associated with computational physics are emerging, it is apparent that the pool of U.S. citizens in this multi-disciplinary field is relatively small and is typically not focused on the aspects that are of primary interest to LANL. Furthermore, more structured foundations for LANL interaction with universities in computational physics is needed; historically interactions rely heavily on individuals’ personalities and personal contacts. Thus a tertiary purpose of the Summer Workshop is to build an educational network of LANL researchers, university professors, and emerging students to advance the field and LANL’s involvement in it. This report includes both the background for the program and the reports from the students.« less

  5. A comparison of African-American and Caucasian college students' attitudes toward computers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luckett, Pamela Gail

    1997-09-01

    As computer usage becomes mandatory on college campuses across the world, the issue of examining students' attitudes toward computers becomes very important. The major goal of this study was to examine the relationship between gender and ethnicity and African American and Caucasian college students attitudes toward computers. The Computer Attitude Scale instrument was used to measure the students' attitudes. During the Summer of the 1996 academic year, a university in the southeastern United States was selected to participate in this study. A total of 230 African American and Caucasian undergraduate students participated in the study. The students were pre-tested during the first week of the semester to access their initial computer attitudes. The students were enrolled in one of the mandatory computer literacy courses (Computer Literacy Awareness Course or C, Pascal or FORTRAN Programming Course) for 12 weeks. There were a total of seven different instructors for the courses. During the 12th week of class, the students were post-tested to access their computer attitudes after completing one of the computer literacy courses. Results were analyzed using ANCOVA. While both African Americans and Caucasian students showed a slight increase in their attitudes toward computers after completing the course, no significant difference between the groups was found. However, all groups were found to have positive attitudes toward computers in general. Data analysis also indicated no significant gender difference among African American and Caucasian undergraduate students. This confirmed findings of previous studies in which no significant gender difference was found to exist among college students.

  6. Snapping Sharks, Maddening Mindreaders, and Interactive Images: Teaching Correlation.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mitchell, Mark L.

    Understanding correlation coefficients is difficult for students. A free computer program that helps introductory psychology students distinguish between positive and negative correlation, and which also teaches them to understand the differences between correlation coefficients of different size is described in this paper. The program is…

  7. Training Students as Technology Assistants.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Onishi, Esther; Peto, Erica

    1996-01-01

    Describes a program where fifth and sixth graders are trained as school technology assistants. The childrens' duties include installation of software, making minor repairs, cleaning computer equipment, and assisting teachers and students. Outlines components of the program, lists forms the assistants use and skills they are taught, and provides…

  8. [Computer-assisted multimedia interactive learning program "Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma"].

    PubMed

    Dick, V B; Zenz, H; Eisenmann, D; Tekaat, C J; Wagner, R; Jacobi, K W

    1996-05-01

    Advances in the area of information technology have opened up new possibilities for the use of interactive media in the training of medical students. Classical instructional technologies, such as video, slides, audio cassettes and computer programs with a textbook orientation, have been merged into one multimedia computer system. The medical profession has been increasingly integrating computer-based applications which can be used, for example, for record keeping within a medical practice. The goal of this development is to provide access to all modes of information storage and retrieval as well as documentation and training systems within a specific context. Since the beginning of the winter semester 1995, the Department of Ophthalmology in Giessen has used the learning program "Primary Open Angle Glaucoma" in student instruction. One factor that contributed to the implementation of this project was that actual training using patients within the clinic is difficult to conduct. Media-supported training that can provide a simulation of actual practice offers a suitable substitute. The learning program has been installed on Power PCs (Apple MacIntosh), which make up the technical foundation of our system. The program was developed using Hypercard software, which provides userfriendly graphical work environment. This controls the input and retrieval of data, direct editing of documents, immediate simulation, the creation of on-screen documents and the integration of slides that have been scanned in as well as QuickTime films. All of this can be accomplished without any special knowledge of programming language or operating systems on the part of the user. The glaucoma learning program is structured along the lines of anatomy, including an explanation of the circulation of the aqueous humor, pathology, clinical symptoms and findings, diagnosis and treatment. This structure along with the possibility for creating a list of personal files for the user with a collection of illustrations and text allows for quick access to learning content. The program is designed in such a way that working with and through it is done in a manner conducive to learning. Student response to the learning program as an accompaniment to instruction has been positive. Independent, supplemental student learning by means of an interactive learning program has raised the quality of study within the sciences. The use of a pedagogically sound multimedia program, that is oriented toward problem solving and based on actual cases offers students the opportunity to actively work ophthalmological material. An additional benefit is the development of competence in working with computer-support information systems, something that is playing an ever-increasing role within the medical profession.

  9. Computing Education in Korea--Current Issues and Endeavors

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Choi, Jeongwon; An, Sangjin; Lee, Youngjun

    2015-01-01

    Computer education has been provided for a long period of time in Korea. Starting as a vocational program, the content of computer education for students evolved to include content on computer literacy, Information Communication Technology (ICT) literacy, and brand-new computer science. While a new curriculum related to computer science was…

  10. Transformative Connections: Community-Based K-12 Computing Program Strives to Strengthen Academic and Career Aspirations of Its Participants

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Roach, Ronald

    2005-01-01

    The Joint Educational Facilities Inc. (JEF) computer science program has as its goal to acquaint minority and socially disadvantaged K-12 students with computer science basics and the innovative subdisciplines within the field, and to reinforce the college ambitions of participants or help them consider college as an option. A non-profit…

  11. Writing. A Research-Based Writing Program for Students with High Access to Computers. ACOT Report #2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hiebert, Elfrieda H.; And Others

    This report summarizes the curriculum development and research effort that took place at the Cupertino Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow (ACOT) site from January through June 1987. Based on the premise that computers make revising and editing much easier, the four major objectives emphasized by the computer-intensive writing program are fluency,…

  12. Letter Writing Made Easy.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Porec, Carol J.

    1989-01-01

    Describes how "The Children's Writing and Publishing Center" (a desktop publishing program for elementary students) combines word processing with computer graphics and motivates students to write letters. (MM)

  13. The Laboratory-Based Economics Curriculum.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    King, Paul G.; LaRoe, Ross M.

    1991-01-01

    Describes the liberal arts, computer laboratory-based economics program at Denison University (Ohio). Includes as goals helping students to (1) understand deductive arguments, (2) learn to apply theory in real-world situations, and (3) test and modify theory when necessary. Notes that the program combines computer laboratory experiments for…

  14. Facilities Management via Computer: Information at Your Fingertips.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hensey, Susan

    1996-01-01

    Computer-aided facilities management is a software program consisting of a relational database of facility information--such as occupancy, usage, student counts, etc.--attached to or merged with computerized floor plans. This program can integrate data with drawings, thereby allowing the development of "what if" scenarios. (MLF)

  15. Computer Simulation of the Population Growth (Schizosaccharomyces Pombe) Experiment.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Daley, Michael; Hillier, Douglas

    1981-01-01

    Describes a computer program (available from authors) developed to simulate "Growth of a Population (Yeast) Experiment." Students actively revise the counting techniques with realistically simulated haemocytometer or eye-piece grid and are reminded of the necessary dilution technique. Program can be modified to introduce such variables…

  16. Community Colleges and Cybersecurity Education.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Teles, Elizabeth J.; Hovis, R. Corby

    2002-01-01

    Describes recent federal legislation (H.R. 3394) that charges the National Science Foundation with offering more grants to colleges and universities for degree programs in computer and network security, and to establish trainee programs for graduate students who pursue doctoral degrees in computer and network security. Discusses aspects of…

  17. Laptop Lessons: Exploring the Promise of One-to-One Computing.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carter, Kim

    2001-01-01

    Describes benefits of programs where schools provide laptop computers for each student. Topics include results of studies that show positive learning outcomes; funding options; implementation; protecting the equipment; resources for learning about laptop programs; staff training and support; and future possibilities, including the implications of…

  18. Gender and stereotypes in motivation to study computer programming for careers in multimedia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Doubé, Wendy; Lang, Catherine

    2012-03-01

    A multimedia university programme with relatively equal numbers of male and female students in elective programming subjects provided a rare opportunity to investigate female motivation to study and pursue computer programming in a career. The MSLQ was used to survey 85 participants. In common with research into deterrence of females from STEM domains, females displayed significantly lower self-efficacy and expectancy for success. In contrast to research into deterrence of females from STEM domains, both genders placed similar high values on computer programming and shared high extrinsic and intrinsic goal orientation. The authors propose that the stereotype associated with a creative multimedia career could attract female participation in computer programming whereas the stereotype associated with computer science could be a deterrent.

  19. The presence of mathematics and computer anxiety in nursing students and their effects on medication dosage calculations.

    PubMed

    Glaister, Karen

    2007-05-01

    To determine if the presence of mathematical and computer anxiety in nursing students affects learning of dosage calculations. The quasi-experimental study compared learning outcomes at differing levels of mathematical and computer anxiety when integrative and computer based learning approaches were used. Participants involved a cohort of second year nursing students (n=97). Mathematical anxiety exists in 20% (n=19) of the student nurse population, and 14% (n=13) experienced mathematical testing anxiety. Those students more anxious about mathematics and the testing of mathematics benefited from integrative learning to develop conditional knowledge (F(4,66)=2.52 at p<.05). Computer anxiety was present in 12% (n=11) of participants, with those reporting medium and high levels of computer anxiety performing less well than those with low levels (F(1,81)=3.98 at p<.05). Instructional strategies need to account for the presence of mathematical and computer anxiety when planning an educational program to develop competency in dosage calculations.

  20. Computer programing for geosciences: Teach your students how to make tools

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grapenthin, Ronni

    2011-12-01

    When I announced my intention to pursue a Ph.D. in geophysics, some people gave me confused looks, because I was working on a master's degree in computer science at the time. My friends, like many incoming geoscience graduate students, have trouble linking these two fields. From my perspective, it is pretty straightforward: Much of geoscience evolves around novel analyses of large data sets that require custom tools—computer programs—to minimize the drudgery of manual data handling; other disciplines share this characteristic. While most faculty adapted to the need for tool development quite naturally, as they grew up around computer terminal interfaces, incoming graduate students lack intuitive understanding of programing concepts such as generalization and automation. I believe the major cause is the intuitive graphical user interfaces of modern operating systems and applications, which isolate the user from all technical details. Generally, current curricula do not recognize this gap between user and machine. For students to operate effectively, they require specialized courses teaching them the skills they need to make tools that operate on particular data sets and solve their specific problems. Courses in computer science departments are aimed at a different audience and are of limited help.

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