Open Source Software Practices in CS2

Abstract

By contributing to open source software (OSS), students can gain professional software development experience and learn about applications of computer science (CS) concepts in pragmatic contexts. However, integrating such projects in classrooms requires substantial logistical planning by instructors as well as adequate programming skills from students. To mitigate these challenges, we propose four model curricula to serve as accessible strategies of integrating practicable learning opportunities in lower-level CS classes. Depending on classroom circumstances, instructors can assign projects that involve student contributions to OSS, custom plug-ins, simulated open source communities, or practical code excerpts. As a result, students will be able to explore the utility of CS and discover an exciting future in computing.