A Study of Components and Needs Assessment for Competency-Based Development of Fundamentals of Computer Science Course for Undergraduate Students
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Abstract
This research is part of a study on the Competency-Based Curriculum Development of the Fundamentals of Computer Science Course Based on Blended Learning Concepts and Cooperative Learning Theory for Undergraduate Students. This research aimed to 1) study the components of competency in the fundamentals of computer science courses for undergraduate students; and 2) investigate the current situation, expected conditions, and need assessment for developing competencies in the fundamentals of computer science courses. The data collection in Phase 1 involved interviewing six qualified individuals to inquire about the components of competency in the course and evaluate the appropriateness of these components and indicators. In Phase 2, the sample group consisted of first-year computer science students in the academic year 2023 from four upper northeastern regional Rajabhat universities, with a minimum sample size of 80% of 110 students, using proportional stratified sampling. The research findings included evaluating the appropriateness of components and indicators in the course, revealing 4 competencies with 77 indicators. Firstly, competency in accessing, evaluating, and managing computer science data has 16 indicators. Second, competency in analyzing and solving computer problems has 47 indicators. Thirdly, teamwork competency had 7 indicators. Lastly, competency in ethics and a good attitude toward computer operations had 7 indicators. The overall appropriateness was highest (mean=4.70, S.D.=0.52). In addition, the needs assessment results for developing competency were 4 competencies sorted by the value of need assessment from highest to lowest. Firstly, competency in analyzing and solving computer problems was 0.55. Secondly, competency in accessing, evaluating, and managing computer science information was 0.42. Thirdly, competency in ethics and a good attitude towards computer operations was 0.35. Lastly, teamwork competency was 0.33. The overall need assessment index for all four competencies was equal to 0.41, meaning that the conditions exist at present. There is less than expected condition by the rate of change in development from the actual conditions at present, leading to an anticipated condition of 0.41 or 41%.
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