Worth a Read: Computer Science Courses that Don’t Exist, But Should

Approximate Reading Time: < 1 minuteA list by James Hague: CSCI 2100: Unlearning Object-Oriented Programming Discover how to create and use variables that aren’t inside of an object hierarchy. Learn about “functions,” which are like methods but more generally useful. Prerequisite: Any course that used the … Continue reading

Tech or No Tech in the Classroom? The debate Continues.

Approximate Reading Time: 3 minutesCame across this: Why I’m Asking You Not to Use Laptops – Lingua Franca – Blogs – The Chronicle of Higher Education. I suspect it is because we are starting a new school year that this topic is popping up a … Continue reading

Where is the line between good instructions and hand-holding?

Approximate Reading Time: 2 minutesOne of the great things about games is their potential for delivering just-in-time instruction. Most games require some sort of user assistance, whether it be instructions, in-game tutorials, or a help system. Many games integrate help and tutorial information into the gameplay … Continue reading

21st Century Tech: Is it harder or easier to become informed?

Approximate Reading Time: < 1 minuteI’ve been pondering this for some time now. It is easier now than ever before in history to get your word out there. This blog is an excellent example. All I need is a little bit of computer knowledge and … Continue reading

Valuing a Job Well Done

Approximate Reading Time: < 1 minuteYou know how chance or fleeting encounters with people who cross your path can sometimes leave a lasting impression? The man who drove the forklift at the local feed store has become a symbol in our household. He is a … Continue reading

New Book on Learning Processing

Approximate Reading Time: < 1 minuteCheck out Jim Parker‘s most recent book, available only as a E-book. “100 Cool Processing Sketches” is a book that purports to teach computer programming by example using a visual language. Contains all of the source code, downloadable. Includes exercises … Continue reading

The Edutainment Era – A Look at What Happened and Why.

Approximate Reading Time: < 1 minuteI gave a keynote address at the inaugural EduGaming conference last year. As part of the preparation, I made this timeline:  The Edutainment Era – A Look at What Happened and Why. We are once again experiencing a rise in the popularity … Continue reading

Helping Students Advance At Their Own Pace

Approximate Reading Time: 5 minutesThis came across my feed the other day. It’s a great example of why it is so important to have people who understand BOTH teaching AND technology. Finding the Most Creative Ways to Help Students Advance At Their Own Pace … Continue reading