The automation of introductory computer science courses

Abstract

In response to a large (currently 2000 students per semester) and increasing enrollment in introductory computer science courses, we have started a project to automate these courses on the PLATO IV Computer-Based Education system at the University of Illinois. The key components of our automated course are: 1. a library of lessons, covering several programming languages, computing techniques, and application areas 2. a completely self-contained interactive programming system for the preparation, execution and debugging of programs written by students in any of the languages covered by the lessons 3. a conversational advice-giving and information retrieval system to guide the student through the library of lessons, based on his goals and past performance. The goals and current status of this project are described.