Links

About the Class

CSCI C295 is a one credit, graded class where students work within the community to foster interest, knowledge, and appreciation of the computing sciences by preparing and leading presentations and hands-on activities for children in middle and secondary schools. Not for major credit.

The purpose of this class is to present, develop, evaluate and evolve Just Be, an interactive outreach program designed to present computing as a diverse and exciting field. Students are expected to work in groups on projects to improve Just Be and present their work to the class. Evaluation will be based on classroom performance, participation in community outreach, self-reflection, and project results.

Objectives:

• Develop teamwork, communication, presentation and leadership skills.
• Experience presenting in the community and in the classroom.
• Reflect on the importance of outreach.
• Make a difference in the community.
• Contribute to the evolution of Just Be.
• Increase appreciation of the computing sciences and computing community.

Course Requirements

Please note that these requirements are subject to change, and if changed students will be notified in a timely manner.

Outreach

Ten hours of community outreach activities are expected from each student. Practice, coordination and travel time count towards the ten hours. Typically, one long Just Be visit or two short Just Be visits will fulfill this requirement. Please talk to the instructor about any circumstances or concerns you have about this requirement.

Group work

Groups and project topics will be determined in the fourth week of class. Projects will be graded and the entire group will receive the same grade for the project. Each group member will assess their own role in the group and how the group functioned as a whole. The group will give a 30-minute presentation about the project they complete. Presentation grades will be given individually. Informal weekly meetings with the instructor will provide feedback on the work in progress.

Presentations in front of the class

All students will present material in front of the class for a total of 20 minutes. Part of this requirement is fulfilled by the formal project presentation. The remainder will be fulfilled by more informal in-class presentations, such as a sample Just Be presentation or project proposal.

Reflection Papers

Three reflection papers serve as a personal reflection and communication to the instructor about the course expectations and outcomes. Each reflection paper should be 1- 2 pages long and address a series of questions provided by the instructor.