Using the Media Computation Approach to Teach a Web-Based Java Programming Course
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Using the Media Computation Approach to Teach a Web-Based Java Programming Course

Submitted By: boblogan53
Scheduled For: Tuesday @ 11:00 AM in Water Oaks I
Session Type: Session - Presentation (includes keynote & business mtg)
Target Audience: Those interested in ways to improve student success in introductory computing (programming) courses.

Abstract:

Nationally, it has been reported that 30 – 50% of students enrolled in introductory computing courses either withdraw, or receive grades of D or F. Research into this phenomenon indicates that a common theme among students is that computing courses seem irrelevant and focus unnecessarily on tedious details. Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed the media computation approach to teaching introductory computing courses, and have seen significant improvements in student success as a result of its implementation. This paper describes the author’s experience using the media computation approach to teach a web-based introductory Java programming course, and also includes data on student perceptions and success rates vs. traditional programming courses at the author’s institution.

Robert Logan is an Assistant Professor in the Computer Technology Department at Kent State University’s Salem Campus. Robert has over 30 years of industry experience in Quality Engineering, Production Management and Software Development. Robert teaches Java and Visual Basic programming, Microsoft Office, and computer hardware courses.