Teaching computer networks as a writing intensive course

ABSTRACT

A senior level course in Computer Networks was included in Radford University's Writing-Intensive Course program. This implied that writing was used in every facet of the course by the students and by the instructor. The volume and the diversity of the writing significantly enhanced the educational experience from both points of view. Some beneficial effects and some detrimental ones on the amount of subject matter covered were experienced. The fundamental nature of the course, however, was not altered, and the net effects of the writing are seen as very beneficial.

REFERENCES

• 1: L. W. Brinn, Computer Networks, ACM SIGCSE Bulletin, v.17 n.1, p.135-139, Mar. 1985
• 2: [2] Self, Warren P., and Murphy, Richard J., "Radford University Writing Across the Curriculum: Writing-Intensive Courses, a Pilot Program of Model Courses," Radford University, 1986.
• 3: [4] Stallings, William, Local Networks, 2. ed., Macmillan Publishing Company, New York, 1987.
• 4: William J Taffe, Teaching computer science through writing, ACM SIGCSE Bulletin, v.18 n.2, p.82-83, June 1986 [doi>10.1145/15075.15094]
• 5: Andrew S. Tanenbaum, Computer Networks, Prentice Hall PTR, Upper Saddle River, NJ, 1985
• 6: [6] Zimmerman, H., "OSI Reference Model - The ISO Model of Architecture for Open System Interconnection," IEEE Transactions on Communications, Vol. com-28, No. 4, April, 1980, pp. 425-432.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION
      K.3.2 Computer and Information Science Education
          Subjects: Curriculum

Additional Classification:
  C. Computer Systems Organization
  C.2 COMPUTER-COMMUNICATION NETWORKS

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors