Article # 3
Title :
Foundations for Computing : Applying Pedagogy to a Foundation Year Computer Science Module
Authors :
Dr Adam Wootton Computing and Physics , Foundation Year , Keele University
DOI :
Foundations for Computing : Applying Pedagogy to a Foundation Year Computer Science Module
Abstract
Computers and Programming is a core module for Foundation Year students at Keele University intending to progress on to study Computer Science . This paper details a three-year reflection on how this module could be better delivered . After several areas for address were identified , it was found that changes to the structure , teaching activities and assessment of the module , in keeping with the principles of constructive alignment , led to significant improvement in student assessment performance .
This paper presents a critical evaluation of a Foundation Year module at Keele University , FYO-00096 Computers and Programming . This work was originally completed as part of a reflective portfolio for Keele ’ s MA Higher Education Practice Design and Development in Higher Education module . Introduction to FYO-00096
FYO-00096 Computers and Programming was first introduced in the 2013-14 academic year as a two-semester , 20 credit core module for Foundation Year students intending to progress on to study Computer Science . It has a very wide remit in giving the students an introduction to both computational theory and programming .
The intended learning outcomes for the module are as follows :
1 . Demonstrate basic knowledge and understanding of computer architecture ;
2 . Describe and utilize various types of computer data , variables , programming statements , procedures and functions ;
3 . Define a problem with regard to design of a computer animation ;
4 . Break a programming problem into components in a hierarchy diagram ;
5 . Design an algorithm to solve a problem ;
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