We describe various features and scaffolds embedded in a computer science high school course that is supported by an online learning environment. To develop this course we followed a design-based research approach with problem-based learning as our underlying pedagogy. In collaboration with computer scientists, computer science teachers, and instructional designers, we sought to re-envision Computer Science instruction while creating an innovation that is flexible enough to adapt to local contexts without losing its essence.

1. Thriving in our
Digital World
Innovating computer science education at
the high school level through technology-
enhanced PBL
George Veletsianos, PhD Calvin Lin, PhD
Gregory Russell Bradley Beth
Learning Technologies Computer Science

2. Summary

4. The state of Computer Science in High School

5. CS Principles

6. Course overview
Dual enrollment
(CS for non-majors)
PBL
Goals
Diversity

7. Problem-based learning model
Krajcik and Blumenfeld (2006)
• learners are presented with a driving question
or challenge,
• develop a tangible end-product to address
the question/challenge,
• engage in authentic activities,
• collaborate with others & work in groups,
• use technology to engage in otherwise
impossible activities.
• teacher scaffolds

8. Course Design

9. Module example: Computers

10. Technology scaffolds

11. Common scaffolds
learning management
system
collaborative administrative
tools tools
content management

12. Content
pages

13. External resources
open-
source
tools
e.g. Audacity e.g. Gimp
content
specific
applets
e.g. audio sampling e.g. binary finger counting

14. Custom-built scaffolds

15. Online narrative: Conspiracy Theory

16. e.g. Where’s Waldo computing?
Computers are no longer relegated to the desktop. They are ubiquitous (everywhere). The
image above is a random snapshot taken by photographer Donald Peterson of a busy New
York City street. Can you locate 6 instances of computing in the image above?

17. e.g. CS Calendar

18. Ongoing research and development
3-year project
Year 1: Design & Development (D&D)
Year 2: D&D, implementation, evaluation, redesign
Year 3: Evaluation

19. Thank you
Questions & comments:
veletsianos @ utexas.edu
grussell @ utexas.edu
Course and materials are openly available at:
http://tinyurl.com/engagewithcs