Abstract
M.Ed.
Computer Studies as a school subject consists of a theory and
a practical component. The practical component refers to
programming. In programming the student has to design a
algorithm. Problems can be solved with step by step
approaches which lead to the final instruction that will
solve the problem. This sequence of instructions that lead
to problem solving is called an algorithm. There is more than
one algorithm that will solve the same problem. There is no
fixed recipe but only guidelines that assist the student to
design an algorithm.
During the designing of an algorithm the student gets the
opportunity to be creative. The practical component of
computer studies provides the ideal situation in which the
student can solve a problem in his own way. Because of the
nature of computer studies which is problem solving the
opportunity arises where one can expose his creative talent.
The situation unfortunately today exists where some teachers
lack experience and training. To determine whether a specific
algorithm solves a problem the inexperienced teacher should
use a computer. Teachers that prefer to mark algorithms with
a memorandum hamper the creativity of students. Although
most teachers do have the necessary academic background they
were not properly trained in the subject didactics of
computer studies.