Information Systems curriculum optimization for effective learning of problem solving

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Source of Publication

ASEE Annual Conference Proceedings

Publication Date

10-25-2004

Abstract

The Information Systems (IS) field is witnessing a rapid change due to the continuous advances in technology. Consequently, academic institutions need to frequently update the IS curriculum to remain current. An important yet unpopular part of the curriculum is problem solving and programming. As students encounter difficulties in understanding the concepts of programming, a number of colleges attempt to solve the issue by introducing different programming languages. Currently, Java is the programming language of choice for industry and academic institutions. However, Java is not easy to learn even for non-novice programmers. In this paper, we propose a sequence of IS courses that emphasizes the problem solving component prior to introducing the syntax and semantics of programming languages, The proposed sequence includes courses in problem solving concepts, algorithm design and development, solution modeling, and finally coding. We anticipate that the proposed course sequence will provide insights on the development of a framework to teach not only programming but problem solving in general. The proposed framework will make students appreciate the usefulness of problem solving and will facilitate the use of appropriate programming languages to develop solutions.

First Page

7281

Last Page

7289

Disciplines

Computer Sciences | Education

Keywords

Algorithms, COBOL (programming language), Computer programming, Computer software, Image coding, Information science, Java programming language, Learning systems, Optimization, Problem solving, Semantics, Societies and institutions, Computer information systems, Critical thinking, Information systems (IS), Math placement test, Syntax, Curricula

Scopus ID

5444225035

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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