Topic

Building Independent Problem Solving Skills:

Problem solving is a key component of Computer Science, and the ability to think independently to solve a problem on one's own is an important skill we hope students develop and improve in our intro classes. However, many students enter college having never before been asked to think this way for their schoolwork. Since giving someone a set formula for independent critical thinking rather defeats the purpose, it can be tricky (but not impossible!) to help others build this skill.

We've invited the instructors for CS101 to come and participate in a brainstorming session so that we can benefit from their teaching experiences as we consider strategies for building independent problem solving skills in introductory level CS classes.

Discussion Prompts

• How would you describe "critical thinking" or "independent problem solving"? What purpose do they serve in the study of Computer Science?
• Consider some recent moments when you've found yourself using your problem solving skills. When coming up with your own solutions to problems, which aspects of the process do you find most challenging or frustrating? Which aspects do you find most rewarding? What happens when you can't solve the problem?
• What are some obstacles for solving a problem on your own? (e.g. not understanding some aspect of the problem, assuming the problem is too hard for you) What are some ways around those obstacles?
• What are some ways that you could encourage 101/201 students to be more independent about their CS work?

Groups

• Group A
  • Lisa
  • Sara
  • Natalie
  • Alina
  • Malika
• Group B
  • Valerie
  • Nada
  • Yvonne
  • Emilia
  • Shanzeh
• Group C
  • Charlie
  • Anisha
  • Jenna
  • Tracy
  • Kristin
• Group D
  • Janet
  • Hiwete
  • Ching Ching
  • Ammal
  • Xuefei
  • Caitlin