Process oriented guided inquiry learning in computer science: The CS-POGIL & IntroCS-POGIL projects

Abstract

Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning (POGIL) is an evidence-based pedagogical approach in which student teams work on classroom activities designed to help them collaboratively construct understanding of key concepts, and at the same time to develop process skills including communication, critical thinking, problem solving, and teamwork. POGIL activities use learning cycles in which teams are given a model (e.g. a diagram, graph, table, or sample code) and then answer questions that guide them to explore the model, invent their own understanding of key concepts, and then apply that understanding in other contexts. The instructor is not a lecturer, but an active facilitator who observes student teams, interacts to address problems, and leads classroom discussion as needed. POGIL has been used across STEM disciplines (including chemistry, engineering, computer science, and mathematics), and research studies generally find that students have better learning outcomes. The CS-POGIL project and the IntroCS-POGIL project both seek to expand the use and evidence of POGIL in Computer Science and related areas. The 2011 NSF TUES CS-POGIL project developed sample POGIL activities for topics in intermediate level CS courses, and helped to develop a POGIL community in CS through conference presentations, support for CS faculty to attend 3-day regional POGIL workshops, and online discussions. The 2017 NSF IUSE IntroCSPOGIL project is a larger-scale study of how faculty implement POGIL in introductory CS courses and the factors that affect faculty implementation and student outcomes.