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On the need for teaching problem-solving in a Computer Science Curriculum

Published:01 January 1975Publication History
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Abstract

One issue which is not often stressed, or even addressed, in Computer Science Curriculums is that of problem solving. Since problem solving is an essential activity in the construction of programs as well as other computer science pursuits, the omission of any formal instruction in this area is a serious matter. An instructional methodology is proposed for enhancing the problem solving abilities of students enrolled in introductory computer science courses. In particular, a paradigm is proposed to guide the student in his problem solving endeavors. Several examples of problems that were used for the purpose of increasing the students' problem-solving abilities are given.

References

  1. 1 Dodd, G. "Industry Reaction to Computer Science Education: Position Statements by Panelists." SIGCSE Bulletin #6 (February 1974):79. Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  2. 2 Gardner, M. The Scientific American Book of Mathematical Puzzles and Diversions. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1959.Google ScholarGoogle Scholar
  3. 3 Gries, D. "What Should We Teach in an Introductory Programming Course?" SIGCSE Bulletin #6 (February 1974):81-89 Google ScholarGoogle ScholarDigital LibraryDigital Library
  4. 4 O'Beirne, T. H. Puzzles and Paradoxes. New York: Oxford University Press, 1965.Google ScholarGoogle Scholar
  5. 5 Wickelgren, W. A. How to Solve Problems: Elements of a Theory of Problems and Problem Solving. San Francisco: W. H. Freeman and Company, 1974.Google ScholarGoogle Scholar

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  1. On the need for teaching problem-solving in a Computer Science Curriculum

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          • Published in

            cover image ACM SIGCSE Bulletin
            ACM SIGCSE Bulletin  Volume 7, Issue 1
            Proceedings of the 5th SIGCSE symposium on Computer science education
            February 1975
            209 pages
            ISSN:0097-8418
            DOI:10.1145/953064
            Issue’s Table of Contents
            • cover image ACM Conferences
              SIGCSE '75: Proceedings of the fifth SIGCSE technical symposium on Computer science education
              January 1975
              221 pages
              ISBN:9781450373982
              DOI:10.1145/800284

            Copyright © 1975 ACM

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            Association for Computing Machinery

            New York, NY, United States

            Publication History

            • Published: 1 January 1975

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