1. A Project-Oriented Scripting Approach to Introductory Computer Science Ken Abernethy and Kevin Treu Furman University, Greenville, SC, USA Robert Shive Millsaps College, Jackson, MS, USA

2. Background At this conference last year, we reported on a new course emphasizing algorithmic thinking problem-solving using scripting Two-fold rationale a bridge from computer literacy courses to CS major sequence an alternative to current CS0 courses

3. Focus: An Entry Point for CS Major Possible new introductory course for the computer science major, when delivered with a project focus in a team-oriented format Objective is to attract more students to explore CS as an interest Course assumes a familiarity with authoring at least simple Web pages

4. Potential Advantages over CS0/CS1 A gentler and more appealing introduction to algorithmic thinking (scripting) A familiar domain (the Web) in which to build student experience and intuition about object- oriented problem-solving Early emphasis on project-driven problem definition, solution design, and implementation Early experiences in meaningful teamwork The positive reinforcement of significant work products

5. Algorithmic Thinking Focus is on JavaScript and PHP scripting Problems/activities on interactive Web pages visible and easy-to-demonstrate objectives examples provide practice with a wide range of programming constructs and techniques Web context provides gratifying results quickly Introduction to databases and SQL for backend database access

6. Object-Oriented Problem-Solving Introduce elements of the W3C document object model (DOM) students use methods associated with windows and documents in early examples later examples extend the use of both methods and properties for a number of built-in object classes within the Web environment Emphasis is on uses of the object model to solve problems of interest students build intuition about objects, methods, properties, and event-handlers in a comfortable setting (Web) little formal mention of the underlying concepts here students are being prepared for more formal treatments in later courses

7. Project-Driven Work Objective is to simulate real-world development environments real projects and deadlines goal-oriented study and research student ownership of projects teamwork with clear divisions of responsibility progress and summary reports team meetings facilitated by professors Projects required significant, interactive, database-driven Web sites

8. Experience in Teamwork Students are placed in small teams (3-5 students per team) Each team was encouraged to rotate the role of project manager who facilitated: scheduling and holding team meetings meeting periodically with the professor to discuss progress and problems preparing brief written and oral progress reports assigning tasks to team members coordinating the development of the team's design specifications, final report, and project deliverables

9. Some Feedback Positive Would you consider taking additional courses in CS, 44% responded very much so. Did the class stimulate your interest in continuing to learn about computing topics in the future, 50% responded very much so. Describe your level of engagement in this class, 63% responded very engaged or extremely engaged. Negative Only 38% indicated that the term project was one of their favorite features of the class. Only 38% indicated that working in teams was one of their favorite features of the class.

10. Lessons Learned Attracting students to CS: Course concept seems able to do this Students were engaged at a high level Shift of balance of learning responsibility: Students are generally not accustomed to assuming such a large part of the responsibility for their learning Students must be educated about the nature of team project work and the roles and responsibilities of team members Supervision of work: Generally, students (like all of us) work hardest near deadlines Need more measurable milestones in the project work