U of M Wins NSF Grant to Improve Computer Programming in Schools
For release: November 12, 2004
For press information, contact Gabrielle Maxey

The National Science Foundation has awarded the University of Memphis Department of Computer Science a $1.6 million grant to improve computer science resources in Memphis area high schools. The project - a partnership between the University of Memphis, the Memphis City Schools, and Shelby County Schools - is designed to enhance the curriculum of high school computer-programming courses.

U of M graduate students who are majoring in computer science are already working with teachers on such skills such as problem-solving, object-oriented design, teamwork, and software development. Six graduate Fellows were chosen this year; nine graduate students and one undergraduate will be selected the second and third years.

Participating high schools are Bartlett, Collierville, East, Overton, Ridgeway, and Central. The program hopes to expand to 10 high schools next year, said Dr. Linda Sherrell, visiting associate professor of computer science and principal investigator.

The innovative program uses AgentSheets, a simulation modeling tool, to teach problem-solving skills and introductory programming concepts. Lego Robots will be used next year to introduce object-oriented programming. High school students demonstrate their understanding by participating in a month-long programming challenge that requires them to work in teams to plan, design, implement, test, and document a software product.

The program is having a broad impact. It gives college students an opportunity to attend graduate school and offers them experience in classroom teaching. "It attracts students to our program," Sherrell said. "For most of them, teaching is a new experience."

Fellows and teachers attend training workshops in the summer. Teachers, many of whom do not have formal training in computer science, increase their knowledge by working with computer science majors throughout the year. High school students get top-quality computer instruction. "They get a better feel for what computer science is, what it means to major in computer science," Sherrell said. "They get to program adventure games and simulations in an environment very quickly."

Sherrell said some students are so enthusiastic that they ask permission to do computer work during lunch and after school hours. "One teacher told me, 'I've never had a class where every student did his homework.'"
For more information on the program, contact Sherrell at 678-3139.

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