Real-World Experimentation Comparing Time-Sharing and Batch Processing in Teaching Computer Science,

Abstract

This paper is an abbreviated version of a portion of a book-length study. The Air Force Academy conducted a large-scale experiment to test the effectiveness of time-sharing and batch processing in teaching computer science. The experimental design was centered on direct, 'real world' comparison of student effectiveness with time-sharing and batch processing systems using the same computer (the Burroughs B-5500) and the same programing language (ALGOL). The experimental sample involved all introductory computer science courses with a total population of 415 cadets. The results generally indicated a mixed pattern of advantages and disadvantages for both modes, with no generalized clearcut superiority emerging for either one.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 1973
Accession Number
ADA002211

Entities

People

  • H. Sackman

Organizations

  • RAND Corporation

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Batch Processing
  • Computer Science
  • Computers
  • Experimental Design
  • Formal Languages
  • Language
  • Students
  • Theoretical Computer Science
  • United States Air Force Academy

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Computer Science.
  • Military History / Militaries and War Studies
  • Systems Analysis and Design