Share Paper: A Review of Online Computer Science Learning Environments for High School Students

1. Christopher Smith, Louisiana Tech University, United States
2. Lorraine Jacques, Louisiana Tech University, United States

Abstract: Most high schools in the US do not offer a computer science course. For students who want to learn independently, there are several online learning environments for them to choose from, but which are well-suited for high school learners, use best practices in their environments, or teach the topics on the AP CS-A exam? This study reviewed twelve free sites to determine what their learning environments included for tools, what guidance or feedback they gave learners, and whether or not they addressed the topics in the AP CS-A curriculum. We found that none of the sites fully addressed learner's needs ...