Impact of Open-Ended Assignments on Student Motivation in Introductory Computer Science (CS1)

• In Event: 67.069 - Sheraton Roundtable 14 - Osgoode Ballroom
  In Roundtable Session: 67.069-1 - Division C Section 1e Roundtable 4

Abstract

Several attempts have been taken within Computer Science Education (CSE) research to re-conceptualize aspects of CS1 (Introductory Computer Science) to increase student engagement and retention. The purpose of this quasi-experimental study is to build on this area of research in CSE by (1) examining a specific assignment structure meant to allow 245 undergraduate CS1 students freedom to explore/experiment, and (2) gaining a clearer understanding of the relation of this assignment structure to quantitative measures of motivation. These preliminary results show promise for examining different pedagogical structures to support more course engagement among non-specialist students taking CS courses.

Authors

• Sadia Sharmin, University of Toronto

• Daniel Zingaro, University of Toronto

• Clare M. Brett, University of Toronto