Computer science and problem solving: encouraging self-directed learning with large classes

Our current students will be professionals during a period of massibe change. As Engel (1991) points out, for such students self-directed learning is likely to be a necessity. Higher education is itself in a state of flux. The development of less labour intensive educational methods has become a priority as student numbers rise. In this paper we describe a problem solving course which has been devised and run in the Division of Computer Science at the University of Hertfordshire. The course enables Computer Science degree students to develop a range of skills and to explore, understand and apply a range of concepts, that underly the discipline of Computer Science. The course is student centred and activity based encouraging independent self-supporting learning strategies. Students work on a carefully selected range of problems that provide intensive information-rich opportunities to develop their skills and understanding.