Improving learning of computational thinking using computational creativity exercises in a college CSI computer science course for engineers

Duane F. Shell, Melissa Patterson Hazley, Leen Kiat Soh, L. Dee Miller, Vlad Chiriacescu, Elizabeth Ingraham

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

8 Scopus citations

Abstract

Promoting computational thinking is a priority in CS education and other STEM and non-STEM disciplines. Our innovative, NSF-funded IC2Think project blends computational and creative thinking. In Spring 2013, we deployed Computational Creativity Exercises (CCE) designed to engage creative competencies (Surrounding, Capturing, Challenging and Broadening) in an introductory CSI course for engineering students. We compared this CCE implementation semester (80 students, 95% completing 3 or 4 CCEs) to the Fall 2013 semester of the same course (55 students) without CCEs. CCE implementation students had significantly higher scores on a CS concepts and skills knowledge test (F(1, 132) = 7.72, p < 01, partial Eta<sup>2</sup> =.055; M=7.47 to M=6.13; 13 items) and significantly higher self-efficacy for applying CS knowledge in their field (F(1, 153) = 12.22, p <.01, partial Eta<sup>2</sup> =.074; M=70.64 to M=61.47; 100-point scale). CCE implementation students had significantly higher study time (t(1, 136) = 2.08, p =.04; M=3.88 to M=3.29; 7-point scale) and significantly lower lack of regulation, which measures difficulties with studying (t(1, 136) = 2.82, p =.006; M=2.80 to M=3.21; 5-point scale). The addition of computational creativity exercises to CS courses may improve computational thinking and learning of CS knowledge and skills.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings - Frontiers in Education Conference, FIE
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Volume2015-February
EditionFebruary
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 17 2015
Event44th Annual Frontiers in Education Conference, FIE 2014 - Madrid, Spain
Duration: Oct 22 2014Oct 25 2014

Other

Other44th Annual Frontiers in Education Conference, FIE 2014
Country/TerritorySpain
CityMadrid
Period10/22/1410/25/14

Keywords

  • Computational Thinking
  • Creative Thinking
  • CSI
  • Engagement
  • Engineering
  • Self-Efficacy
  • Self-Regulation
  • Student Learning

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Computer Science Applications
  • Software
  • Education

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