Work in progress - effective student ink submissions in computer science courses

Abstract

Topics in introductory computer science courses involve diagrams. Every data structure (e.g., stack, list, tree, or graph) is best understood when the definition is accompanied by a diagram. Demonstrating control flow within a method, or parameter passing from one method to another, are more easily explained using circles, boxes, and arrows. This paper describes our experiences with a web-based tool called MessageGrid which facilitates interaction between instructor and students in the classroom. Focus is on the most recent MessageGrid feature: student submission using digital Ink. We provide examples of exercises we use and student responses. We summarize the results of a student survey evaluating this new technology. Finally, we draw conclusions and describe plans for the future.

Facilitating web-based student team collaboration with MessageGrid

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In this poster proposal, we describe a new tool in MessageGrid [1][2][3][4][5][6] that allows an instructor to create individual grids for student team collaboration. In previous applications of MessageGrid, the instructor of a course had the ability to create a portal to facilitate live in or out-of-class interactivity through a web-based interface available to any student enrolled in the course.

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