“Computer Science for all”: Concepts to engage teenagers and non-CS students in technology

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference paperpeer-review

Abstract

Knowledge in Computer Science (CS) is essential, andcompanies have increased their demands for CS professionals. Despite this, many jobs remain unfilled. Furthermore, employees with computational think-ing (CT) skills are required, even if they are not actual technicians. Moreover, the gender disparity in technolo-gy related fields is a serious problem. Even if companies want to hire women in technology, the number of women who enter these fields is remarkably low. In high schools, most teenagers acquire only low-level skills in CS. Thus, they may never understand the fundamental concepts of CS, have unrealistic expectations or pre-conceptions, and are influenced by stereotype-based expectations. Consequently, many teenagers exclude computing as a career path. In this research study, we present two promising concepts to overcome these challenges. First, we consider alternative paths to enter the field of CS. In 2018, a voluntary lecture “Design your own app” at the University of Graz for students of all degree programs was introduced. In total, 202 stu-dents participated. We applied a Game Development-Based Learning (GDBL) approach with the visual coding tool Pocket Code, a mobile app developed at Graz University of Technology. The students were supposed to create simple games directly on smartphones. The course received positive evaluations and led to our second concept; In January 2019, we started to design a MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) with the title “Get FIT in Computer Science”. The MOOC will be launched in August 2019 on the platform iMooX.at and will provide a general introduction to the field of CS. For exercises and the final submission, the students need to apply game design strategies by using Pocket Code. The MOOC has several target groups. First, this course can be used to encourage young women whohave little to no previous knowledge in CS. Second, it should help all teenagers to get a more realistic picture of CS to its basic concepts. Third, teachers can use the course materials to lead high school classes (Open Educational Resources). Finally, the MOOC can be accessed by everyone interested in this topic, thus students of other majors can acquire CS skills.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 13th European Conference on Games Based Learning
EditorsLars Elbk
Place of PublicationOdense
Pages667-674
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9781912764389
Publication statusPublished - 1 Sept 2019
EventECGBL 2019: 13th European Conference on Games Based Learning - Odense, Denmark
Duration: 3 Oct 20194 Oct 2019

Conference

ConferenceECGBL 2019
Country/TerritoryDenmark
CityOdense
Period3/10/194/10/19

Fields of Expertise

  • Information, Communication & Computing

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