Interdisciplinary teaching and learning in computing science

Abstract

Simon Fraser University introduced the Modelling of Complex Social Systems Program (MoCSSy) as an interdisciplinary research program aimed at complex societal issues. Since its inception, the MoCSSy program has engaged a number of students from computing science, who worked on problems brought by their peers in fields such as obesity and criminology. In this paper, we introduce the organization and structure of MoCSSy, pointing to the importance of computing science in meeting the specific goals and objectives of the Program. Through an analysis of surveys completed with MoCSSy students, we conducted a preliminary assessment on the impact of the program for computing science majors and non majors. We found that the program successfully achieved many of its goals, as computing science majors and non-majors appreciated working with each other and made academic contributions that would not have been possible without this synergy. Finally, we analyze current challenges and identify a strategy for the way forward.