
A Communications Renaissance: Developing Tomorrow’s Developers
http://www.stc.org/confproceed/2000/PDFs/00015.PDF
McKenzie, Andrea
STC Proceedings
2000
Abstract:
Mathematics and computer science can be difficult
subjects for the communications teacher to penetrate. In
1997, the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of
Waterloo initiated the development of a pilot course in
communications for Mathematics and Computer Science
students. This paper explores the research and
discoveries that built a successful course: a definition of
“numeracy” that equates with academic “literacy” as
knowledge creation; perceiving the students as “end
users” and doing ongoing “usability tests” during the
pilot course; and using case studies as social action to
empower students and envision math and technology as
dynamic, socially rich fields through communications.