Transforming Traditional Courses Through Web 2.0 Philosophy: The Case of an Introductory Programming Course

Authors : Hakan TÜZÜN

Pages : 39-54

View : 27 | Download : 11

Publication Date : 2019-10-14

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :In this study, the use of ubiquitous Internet tools utilized in an  undergraduate introductory computer programming course at a large  state university in Turkey are examined. Course web space, blogs,  discussion board, e-mail, and personal web pages were among the  Internet tools utilized by the participants of the course. The framework  for using these tools has been conceived as “Learning Programming  2.0,” which was inspired and shaped by “Web 2.0” principles and  practices conceptualized by Tim O’Reilly. Web 2.0 characterizes second  generation Internet services, such as wikis, blogs, and other tools that  encourage interaction and participation through the Internet.  Essentially, Web 2.0 framework includes not only the tools, but also a  set of principles for using these tools such as harnessing collective  intelligence or providing rich user experiences. In this sense, the focus  of the study is not on the tools, but the pedagogical principles followed  to transform the course, the impact of these principles on the context,  and implementation problems. Although the Learning Programming  2.0 framework puts extra load on the shoulders of facilitators, it is  concluded that this approach contributes to formation of a learning  context in which learning programming is meaningful, effective, and  life-long for learners. 
Keywords : programming and programming languages, improving classroom teaching, postsecondary education, teaching learning strategies, pedagogical issues