Integrating a science perspective into an introductory computer science course

Abstract

Experiences of including a Science Perspective in our university-level introductory computer science course are presented. The Science Perspective has helped in recruitment of students who otherwise might not have considered taking a computer science course. The assignments offered as part of the Science Perspective have been an integral part of our approach to teaching computer science in a way that is interesting and engaging to students by inviting them to explore scientific applications in computing. Our approach uses the Alice 3D animation-based programming environment followed by an event-based graphical Java programming approach. The interactive and visual nature of these approaches has increased student engagement, which has led to better retention in follow-up computer science courses. This approach could also be applicable in teaching computer science in secondary education.