Work in progress - web-based learning for Introductory computer science course

An introductory computer science course entitled "Engineering problem-solving with computers" uses a novel combination of in-class active learning laboratories and out-of-class Web-based learning tools to teach sophomore engineers problem-solving skills using Maple and Matlab. This novel pedagogy is designed to maximize the benefit of in-class activities and to carefully regulate student out-of-class studying. A newly introduced tool, called CourseBuilder, is an XML based content management tool that resulted in remarkable improvement in student performance (one sigma improvement in exam grades) over past experience. We describe the content and pedagogy of this course and how it differs from past practice. We describe the further assessment that is required to better quantify the improved student performance. We propose additional novel teaching practices to further improve student performance and reduce teaching costs.