Kizzle- an app for learning

To enhance the computer science curriculum, a mobile device application (smart phone app), Kizzle, was developed and is currently tested in an introductory course in computer science. The motivation for the app comes from recent literature that indicates that women and students of color are less likely to participate in class, either to ask or answer questions [1][2]. As a result of this “shyness” - for lack of a better word - teachers often assume these students are not as engaged in the material, and the students either lose interest in the subject or fall behind their peers. The app can help with engagement in two ways. In this paper, we will share our preliminary results and detail the design and implementation of Kizzle.