Paper Info
Title
Integrating computational and creative thinking to improve learning and performance in CS1
Abstract
Our research is based on an innovative approach that integrates computational thinking and creative thinking in CS1 to improve student learning performance. Referencing Epstein's Generativity Theory, we designed and deployed a suite of creative thinking exercises with linkages to concepts in computer science and computational thinking, with the premise that students can leverage their creative thinking skills to \"unlock\" their understanding of computational thinking. In this paper, we focus on our study on differential impacts of the exercises on different student populations. For all students there was a linear \"dosage effect\" where completion of each additional exercise increased retention of course content. The impacts on course grades, however, were more nuanced. CS majors had a consistent increase for each exercise, while non-majors benefited more from completing at least three exercises. It was also important for freshmen to complete all four exercises. We did find differences between women and men but cannot draw conclusions.
Year
DOI
Venue
2014
10.1145/2538862.2538940
SIGCSE
Keywords
Field
DocType
referencing epstein,course grade,integrating computational,creative thinking skill,different student population,creative thinking,course content,computational thinking,generativity theory,additional exercise,cs major
Convergent thinking,Suite,Computer science,Computational thinking,Creative thinking,Knowledge management,Generativity Theory,Premise,Critical thinking,Pedagogy,Student learning
Conference
Citations 
PageRank 
References 
11
1.30
7
Authors
6
Name
Order
Citations
PageRank
L. D. Miller1152.54
Leen-kiat Soh259281.43
Vlad Chiriacescu3405.64
Elizabeth Ingraham4345.41
Duane F. Shell510913.80
Melissa Patterson Hazley6476.32