A 21st century teaching and learning approach to computer science education: Teacher reactions

Abstract

This paper describes a pilot study to evaluate its use for teacher Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in Computer Science (CS) using the Bridge21 model, a particular model of 21st century teaching and learning. A range of introductory Computer Science workshops are evaluated that include topics such as; Computational Thinking, Scratch, Raspberry Pi and Python. This paper includes a detailed look at the generalized activity model used in all Bridge21 activities. Combining the Kirkpatrick training evaluation theory with ethnographic methods the researchers analyzed qualitative and quantitative data gathered from 110 in-service teachers whom attended 9 CS CPD workshops. Using the Kirkpatrick framework as a taxonomy with which to code data relating to (a) teachers initial reactions towards the workshops and (b) intentions towards use of the Bridge21 model for supporting CS classroom delivery. Findings indicate that teachers’ initial reactions towards the programme were positive and that teachers intend to use the model in their classroom.