A Few Effective Strategies
for teaching
Computer Science
Starting Class
I make extensive use of the network at my school. I have set up a computer science directory on the student server. I have created sub directories for all of my classes in the computer science directory. Each class directory has several folders within.
CSX - Labs -
this folder contains a folder for each lab with a
start up file and word doc
Slides - this folder contains a folder
for each topic with examples and a slideshow
Files - this folder contains word docs
dated for each class day with daily class information
When a student arrives to my class, he or she sits down and
logs in and goes to the computer science folder on the server.
Once there, the student goes to the folder for their class.
From there, he or she first clicks on the Files folder and the
days dated file. Then, he or she proceeds to read about the
days activities and starts to work.
Labs
I have found that the more
lab assignments you have the better. For each of my topics, I
try to create multiple variations of the lab. For instance, on
Lab07, I have a lab07a, lab07b, lab07c, etc. This allows each
student a greater chance at success as well as challenging the
overachiever student that is always looking for extra credit.
On the server, I put a folder for each lab. For lab 07, I
have a lab07 folder on the server with .java startup files for
each lab. I also include the .doc word files that explain the
lab and show the expected output. Each student copies the
folder for the lab number he or she is working on.
Also, I keep file crates
on tables in my room with file folders numbered to match each
lab with printed copies of the lab assignments. Some students
like to have a paper copy they can look at.
Once a student finishes
all of the Lab0x options, he or she can move on to the next lab
number. I try to allow a work at your own pace style to my
class as much as possible.
Lectures/Class Discussions
I use PowerPoint for every topic that I cover. This enables me to post slideshows to the network before I actually stand up and explain it to the class. I usually post directories on the server with slideshows and java example programs. My students can copy these folders whenever they want and go through them. On the day we actually cover the topic, I have them recopy the folders in case any updates have been made and we go through the topics as a class. This allows students to ask questions and me to clear up any confusion that might have occurred when the material was viewed independently. I have found that this system works incredibly well for all students. The overachiever is always busy and the student that is having a tough time can review the material at any time and as many times as needed.
If you have questions or comments, please send
me an email at stacey.armstrong@apluscompsci.com