Introducing Computer Science Concepts Using Jeroo

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Introducing Computer Science Concepts Using Jeroo

• GaETC Conference 2006
• Alan Preis
• Atlanta International School
• Atlanta, Georgia

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What is Jeroo?
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Why Jeroo?

• class HelloWorld
• public static void main(String args)
• System.out.println("Hello, World!")

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Why Jeroo?

• Students begin working on interesting problems
  from day one.
• Students start by focusing on programming
  concepts, rather than syntax.
• Faster learning curve upon transition to the
  target language.

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Side Benefits

• Students gain exposure to multiple languages.
• Levels playing field for students without prior
  programming experience.
• Objects from day one.

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What concepts can be taught with Jeroo?

• Objects Attributes and Behaviors
• Control Flow Conditionals and Iteration
• Modularity Methods and Arguments
• Recursion

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What target languages are supported by Jeroo?

• Java/C/C
• VB.NET
• Python

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Where to Get Jeroo

• http//www.jeroo.org
• Download Software
• Installation Instructions
• Documentation
• Sample Activities
• Teaching Notes
• Mailing List

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System Requirements

• Java Runtime Environment (JRE) 1.4.0_01 or later
• 350 kB of disk space
• Tested on Microsoft Windows, Macintosh OS-X,
  Linux, Solaris

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Teaching Ideas

• Sample exercises at Jeroo website.
• Challenge levels for students with prior
  programming experience.
• Teaching notes at Jeroo website.
• AP-CompSci Listserv
• http//lyris.collegeboard.com/read/?forumap-comps
  ci

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Questions and Answers
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My Contact Information

• Alan Preis
• Atlanta International School
• apreis_at_aischool.org
• [phone]