Developing a computer science education program: an innovation study

The study utilizes the Clark and Estes (2008) gap analysis framework to assess the knowledge, motivation, and organizational needs of novice and aspiring computer science teachers. The purpose of this study was to better understand the needs of such teachers in an effort to develop a computer science education program at a national institute of higher education. A qualitative methods design was used, including nine interviews with novice and aspiring computer science teachers seeking to participate in a professional development program and the analysis of their content knowledge pre-test scores. Findings from the study illustrate the need for a computer science education program that develops both content and pedagogical content knowledge, increases self-efficacy and interest in computer science generally, provides an experienced CS teacher as a role model, and aligns expectations with school leaders and participants. Based on a literature review and the findings from this study, a series of professional development trainings is proposed that support the development of prepared computer science educators.