Designing a Computer Science Pre-service Teacher Methods Course for Maryland
This project, funded by the Maryland Center for Computing Education (MCCE), aimed to design and implement a Computer Science (CS) preservice teacher methods course at the University of Maryland (UMCP). The primary goal was to improve the pipeline of qualified CS teachers in Maryland by developing a robust CS educator preparation program. Over the course of the grant, several key initiatives were undertaken to support the goals.
Developing CS Expertise in the Terrapin Teachers Program: The Terrapin Teachers program, which trains future STEM educators, expanded to include CS through the hiring of two CS Master Teachers. These teachers played a critical role in building the CS teacher pipeline, both at the university level and in local high schools. The project supported the integration of CS into the existing program by providing guidance on curriculum development, teacher placements, and student recruitment strategies.
Establishing Pathways for Future CS Teachers: A significant effort was dedicated to developing alternative pathways for CS teaching certification, particularly through the School of Information Studies (iSchool) at UMCP. New courses focused on the intersection of information science and education were developed to prepare students for careers in CS education. Additionally, the master’s program in Secondary Computer Science Education was revised to align with Maryland’s K-12 CS standards and the ETS Computer Science Praxis exam, broadening the eligibility criteria for future CS teachers.
Policy Advocacy for CS Teacher Certification: The project team collaborated with the Maryland Center for Computing Education to advocate for changes in state policy regarding CS teacher certification. The efforts focused on expanding the range of acceptable disciplinary degrees for CS certification, making it easier for individuals with varied backgrounds in technology and education to enter the CS teaching profession.
Resource Collection for Future CS Methods Courses: A key outcome of the project was the compilation of curricular resources to support the future development of a CS methods course at UMCP. The team collected and evaluated preservice CS teaching materials from institutions across the country, including syllabi, teaching standards, and research on CS pedagogy. These materials will serve as the foundation for a stand-alone CS methods course, aimed at providing future teachers with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in K-12 CS education.
Through these efforts, the project laid the groundwork for a sustainable and scalable CS educator pipeline in Maryland, ensuring that future generations of students have access to high-quality computer science instruction.
Duration:
June 2019 – June 2021
Additional UMD Investigator(s):
Jan Plane
- State of MD - Maryland Center for Computing Education (MCCE)
- UMD Funded - Maryland Center for Computing Education (MCCE)
Total Award Amount:
$125,000