Fun, Innovative Computer Science Activities for the Classroom and Outreach

Abstract

Teaching a freshman-level introductory course in computer programming can be challenging.

Work-in-Progress: Research Plan for Introducing Problem Solving Skills through Activities to an Introductory Computer Science Course

“…Nine, hands-on activities have been developed and used to aid college students in learning introductory programming concepts [2,3]; these activities were inspired by the work of "CS Unplugged" [4,5]. These activities have been used in introductory classes to supplement traditional lecture, with anecdotal positive feedback from students.…”

Workshop Proposal: K-12 Interactive Classroom and Outreach for Computer Science Concepts Without a Computer (RESUBMISSION)

“…This workshop uses a "CS kit" to provide teachers a solid starting point to integrate CS concepts into their already existing curriculum [7]. [2,3,4] 6. Preview Extension Binary Activities [5 and 6] The workshop session facilitators will present the activities using online active learning techniques.…”

Fun and Interactive Activities for an Introductory Computer Science Course of 200 Students

“…This paper will discuss each activity, the challenges in implementing it in a large classroom, and possible solutions to these challenges. (If the reader wishes to find more details on the activities, please refer to [2,3]).…”

“…All the activities listed below do not require a computer lab, are extremely cost-effective, and require minimum preparation: (1) Understanding Variables and Arrays with Paper Bags [2], (2) Branching and Looping Statements with Starburst Candies [2], (3) Loops with Music [3], (4) Arrays with Tissue Boxes, DVD Sets, Paper Plates, and other Household Goods [2], (5) Monsters Hate Chocolate: Learning Try/Catch Blocks [2], (6) General Class Structure with Bags, Boxes, and a Bin [2], (7) Dr. Doolittle's Vet Office: Learning Classes with Stuffed Animals [2], (8) Sorting Algorithms with Paper Bags [3, 6, 7], and (9) Recursion Introduction: Simple Tower of Hanoi with Colored Paper [3]. The authors designed these activities to be done with a variety of age groups and various numbers of students, however, the activities have never been tired with classes larger than 50 [2,3]. This paper will explore the challenges and logistics of adapting these activities to a forum style lecture hall with approximately 200 students in attendance.…”

“…. The authors designed these activities to be done with a variety of age groups and various numbers of students, however, the activities have never been tired with classes larger than 50 [2,3]. This paper will explore the challenges and logistics of adapting these activities to a forum style lecture hall with approximately 200 students in attendance.…”