Implementing Cognitive Modellig in CS Education: Aligning Theory and Practice of Learning to Program

It can be argued that although computer science may seem one of the best researched areas, it could also be one of the worst taught. In this research we examine the residual problems in traditional teaching methods, and how the same problems have re-occurred in web-based education. We cite the lack of a cognitive model for learning programming as the primary reason for this weakness, and discuss this problem. Finally, we conclude that should a sufficient cognitive model be built and justified, it should lead to huge advancements both in traditional teaching and especially in web-based education and e-learning tools. KEYWORDS Cognitive Models, Computer Science Education, Pedagogical Issues, Mental Models.

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2004
• Where: IADIS
• Authors: Des Traynor, J. Gibson
• Keywords: Cognitive Models, Computer Science, IADIS 2004, IADIS 2008, Traditional Teaching