Valuing computer science education research?

This paper critically enquires into the value systems which rule the activities of teaching and research. This critique is intended to demonstrate the application of critical enquiry in Computer Science Education Research and therefore uses critical theory as a method of analysis.A framework of Research as a Discourse is applied to explore how the notions of research as opposed to teaching are presented, and how discipline and research communities are sustained. The concept of a discourse, based upon the work of Foucault, enables critical insight into the processes which regulate forms of thought. This paper positions the field of Computer Science Education Research, as an illustrative case, within the broader discourse of Research, and argues that Computer Science Education Researchers and educators need to understand and engage in this discourse and shape it to their own ends

An International Collaborative Approach to Supporting the International Learner

This contribution to international learning arose from two international collaborative developments that Southampton Solent University were involved with in 2006. These developments raised questions of preparing and supporting international students, “cross-border” ICT-based course delivery, teaching and learning strategies for international learners and the collaborative development of international learning environments. Informed by a review of the international learning literature and the practice of these two developments, potentially generic approaches to tackling these questions are presented and evaluated. This includes a model for preparing and supporting international students, the delivery of a course in decision support at an International Summer School and the development of a shared international environment and resource for teaching and learning databases. An overarching conclusion drawn is that an international collaborative approach, facilitated by ICT, can lead to a richer and better supported experience for the international learner

Curriculum Update from the ACM Education Board: CS2008 and a Report on Masters Degrees

In this special session, members of the ACM Education Board will give information about two current projects in computer science curriculum developments: an update to the CS2001 volume, CS2008, and a new venture, a report on Masters degrees in Computing. Feedback is required on both reports as the CS2008 volume is an interim measure in advance of a more thorough review in due course. The Masters report will be a report on work-in-progress and feedback on the current progress and the project goals will be welcome