Retention in Computer Science Course

Abstract

Throughout its history, careers in fields related to Computer Science (CS) have expanded. However, there have been periods, like the year 2000 following the ’dot-com bust’ when skilled people had to change employers, invoking negative publicity. The effect of this on enrollment in CS education was dramatic and lasted until 2007. According to Computing Research Association (CRA), there was an amazing increase in CS enrollment in 2008. Total enrollment per department by majors and pre-majors in U.S. CS programs is up 6.2% in 2008, and if only majors are considered, the increase is 8.1% [1]. CS student data are similar in Canadian schools [1]. There is a significant increase in number of enrollments in Computer Science education since 2008 [1]. The vital next step is to retain the enrolled students in Computer Science courses. Keeping that in mind, our research has combined the understanding of retention issues with some action strategies. This paper describes a first year CS course with this objective, initial finding and recommends some strategies to help students to successfully complete the course. In this research, we seek the clear indicators of withdrawal from or unsuccessful completion of a first year CS course. We suggest strategies to reduce the withdrawal rate and provide students with greater confidence in their ability to succeed. Our recommendations are for example, adapting the curriculum to the learners expectations i.e., making early assignments easier and less intimidating. Overall, the number of female students in computer science is low [2] and becomes diminished when they withdraw from the courses. Our suggestion is designating support for female students through the course.