OCIONEWSLETTER Issue 11 • April 2013
SPOTLIGHT
Course Delivery with Interactive Sessions Using DEC Computing Labs Duncan Wong, Jiying Wang The new 4-year curriculum presented many challenges while providing opportunities for exploring new teaching and learning methods. In the new Year 1 curriculum for the College of Science and Engineering, all students took an introductory computing course as one of their college requirement courses. “CS1102 Introduction to Computer Studies” aims to provide an introduction to computing concepts, skills and the technologies behind the Internet. Students were introduced to software tools, web content scripting and basic computer programming. No prior programming or computer science experience would be assumed.
Delivery Philosophy towards Achieving DEC In this course, we pioneer a new course delivery method in support of the DEC. This is based on the philosophy of reinforcing concepts and skill a student learnt in class with practice and exercises which encourage innovation in a lab environment. Lecture materials are accessible on the eLearning system and also through the open Internet. The lecturer presents key concepts and facilitates the students’ learning in classes. To ensure students’ understanding, lab exercises are designed for students to apply the concepts and skills, while at the same time to nurture their inquisitive attitude. These lab sessions also serve to stimulate innovation and encourage student to actively interact with each other and with the tutors. To achieve the DEC’s emphasis of discovery, innovation and creativity, we believe that one of the key factors is to encourage the interaction, not only between students and lecturers, but also among students themselves. We believe that learning can be enhanced when it is