Design Process of a Goal-Based Scenario on Computing Fundamentals

Abstract

In this design case, an instructor developed a goal-based scenario (GBS) for undergraduate computer fundamentals students to apply their knowledge of computer equipment and software. The GBS, entitled the MegaTech Project, presented the students with descriptions of the everyday activities of four persons needing to purchase a computer system. The persons varied by ethnicity, age, gender, work or academic needs, and free-time activities. The students needed to select a person to help, assess their computing needs, select corresponding computer equipment and software from the ad of a fictitious MegaTech Store, and write a persuasive essay or spiel about why the person should purchase those items. The instructional materials developed for the MegaTech Project included detailed instructions about the tasks for the project, descriptions of the people to help, the MegaTech Store ad, a submission form, related technology tutorials, and a detailed grading rubric. The purpose of this paper is to describe the instructional materials, as well as the process followed and design decisions made while creating those materials.