Special Characteristics of Computer Science ; Effects on Teaching and Learning : Views of Teachers

In this study the views of the teachers of Computer Science about the special characteristics of this subject and their effect on its teaching and learning are investigated. From the analysis and interpretation of data these teachers recognized the multidimensional character of Computer Science and that it has an effect on its teaching and learning. Whereas the reported approaches in the traditional classroom setting emphasized the model of ‘transmission of knowledge’, there was a radical transformation of approach towards more modern approaches transformed radically in the computer lab setting. As teachers reported, the computer acted as a catalyst in transforming the whole learning context, including the subject matter, the pupils and the teacher. Teachers recognized Computer Science as rapidly and continually changing discipline and as a subject with great cognitive opaqueness for the pupils. Hence teachers expressed the need to be educated in any new developments in this subject as well as in topics related to its teaching and learning including educational software and the Internet as tools for learning. As a result they proposed the development of a program of on-going further education for teachers. Teachers also expressed the need for school counselors for Computer Science as well as the modification of the curricula towards problem solving and programming.