CS Awesome is an interactive textbook that presents Computer Science 1 curriculum (learning how to program with Java) following the 2019 College Board AP Computer Science A unit ordering and learning objectives.
Type of Material:
Open (Access) Textbook
Recommended Uses:
Best used as an accompaniment to an introductory college-level computer science course.
Can be used for self-paced learning.
Technical Requirements:
Web browser
Identify Major Learning Goals:
To understand the basic concept of computing through Java
To write programs using Java
Target Student Population:
High School, College General Ed, College Lower Division
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Basic computing and maths knowledge
High-school first-year algebra, including use of variables and knowledge of 2-dimensional (Cartesian) coordinates
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The content is comprehensive and follows the 2019 College Board unit ordering and learning objectives.
The content approach is very appropriate. In fact, the website is very useful for learning basic computing.
The content is of high quality with rich information and explanation.
Book appears to have widespread usage with the maintainers highly responsive to reports from instructors
Concerns:
It would be better if some videos could be provided.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The learning objectives/goals are clear.
The website greatly facilitates students to understand basic computing concepts through examples and exercises.
It can enhance student learning through various ways (e.g., through the well-organized content links).
Organization is well-structured and clearly identified
Engagement is enhanced through interaction with the "book", including interactive programming and assessment
Provides feedback at multiple levels; such as, hints, results, checks, and progress indicators
Supports use by instructors. Setting up a "class" enables instructors to track progress of students.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The website is very clear with consistent layout.
It is very easy to navigate through the table of contents.
The instructions and explanations are very clear.
In summary, it is a very good reference website for junior computing students in particular.
Material and interaction is internally consistent across all units
Concerns:
Use by teachers is not as straightforward as use by learners. Requires visiting other aspects of the hosting site (e.g., Using eBooks with Runestone Interactive)
Creative Commons:
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