Several examples from introductory programming course at Grinnell
CSC 151: Fundamentals of Computer Science I for beginners
(multi-paradigm
approach using functional problem solving with Scheme)
CSC 153: Computer Science Fundamentals for those with
considerable experience elsewhere
(accelerated course covering both
functional and object-oriented paradigms with Scheme and Java)
About 11 years ago, changed course formats
Previously traditional: 3 50-minute lectures; 1 50-minute lab per week
New: 4 50-minute labs per week
Some Details
One lab per day
Instructor serves as facilitator
Goal: interact with each person/group twice per class
Give mini-lecture as common difficulties arise
Encourage working in pairs, but not required
Assignment or lab turned in every third class day
(upper-level students help with grading)
Labs and programming assignments count about 1/2 of course grade
Advertised that 1/3 to 1/2 of each test drawn from labs
Typical passing grade for course: about 70%
Notes
Very large initial preparation for writing labs
Work quite manageable after first semester
New format requires change in instructor perspective
Revised course covers about 20% more material in course
Scores on tests significantly better over traditional class format
Scores on tests by those who had worked in pairs also better.
