Puzzle-Based Learning for Engineering and Computer Science

Nickolas Falkner, Raja Sooriamurthi, Zbigniew Michalewicz
2010 Computer  
A number of universities are introducing courses, modules, or freshman seminars that relate to the puzzle-based learning paradigm. The purpose of such units is to attract, motivate and retain engineering/computer science students, and to increase their mathematical awareness and their problem-solving skills. This is essential in developing students as general problem-solvers, rather than training students to limit their thinking to the problems that are immediately pertinent to the specific
more » ... that they are studying. The business world has already recognised that problem-solving skills are valuable and some major companies actively recruit good puzzle-solvers. We introduce and define our puzzle-based learning approach, provide an example of the syllabus and course material and provide evidence of two current implementations, including early student feedback.
doi:10.1109/mc.2009.417 fatcat:sp2cexgwvjcpdjiku7xqdosqha