Case-Based Learning in Computer Information Systems

Abstract

How can we retain computer information systems (CIS) students? A decline in enrollment similar to that which occurred in the 80’s (Mawhinney, Callaghan, & Cale, 1989) is the motivating factor for this question. A google™ search on declining enrollments in information systems brings up reports supporting this trend. DePaul University, for example, had increased undergraduate enrollments “in all colleges but the School for New Learning and the School of Computer Science, Telecommunications and Information Systems” (DePaul University, 2003). A report from the California Community College system listed the top 15 curricular areas of declining FTE’s (Perry, 2003); Computer and Information Science and Computer programming made the list. Our own Computer Information Systems (CIS) and Computer Science programs have fewer students enrolled.