research-article

Exploring Student Motivation in Integration of Soft Skills Training within Three Levels of Computer Science Programs

Authors:

En-Shiun Annie Lee,

Luki Danukarjanto,

Tong SuAuthors Info & Claims

SIGCSE 2024: Proceedings of the 55th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education V. 1

Pages 708 - 714

https://doi.org/10.1145/3626252.3630852

Published: 07 March 2024 Publication History

Abstract

In computer science education, cultivating soft skills alongside technical competencies is increasingly recognized as crucial for successful careers in industry and research. However, integrating soft skills training into curricula often remains a secondary consideration, separate from the primary program delivery or managed by a separate unit within the university. In this paper, we present three comprehensive curricula that intertwine soft skills within academic training for three distinct tiers of computer science education: undergraduate, master's, and professional levels. We identify common intrinsic motivations that we found most impactful for learner success within these programs, and present a detailed exploration of each program's curriculum and goals. By highlighting effective strategies and potential pitfalls, we offer valuable insights into harnessing these motivational drivers to enhance student engagement and learning. Furthermore, we outline emerging opportunities and challenges within the integrated curricula, inviting discussion on the broader implications for computer science education.

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Cited By

Papadimitriou SVirvou MPapadimitriou SVirvou M(2025)Contributions and Discussions on Advancing 21st Century Skills Through EPATHLO: Prosocial Educational Games with Artificial IntelligenceArtificial Intelligence—Based Games as Novel Holistic Educational Environments to Teach 21st Century Skills10.1007/978-3-031-77464-5_10(277-309)Online publication date: 21-Jan-2025
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-77464-5_10

Index Terms

Exploring Student Motivation in Integration of Soft Skills Training within Three Levels of Computer Science Programs
1. Social and professional topics
  1. Professional topics
    1. Computing education
      1. Adult education
      2. Computing education programs
        Computer science education
    2. Computing profession
  2. User characteristics

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cover image ACM Conferences

SIGCSE 2024: Proceedings of the 55th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education V. 1

March 2024

1583 pages

ISBN:9798400704239

DOI:10.1145/3626252

General Chairs:
Ben Stephenson
University of Calgary, Canada6000230660002306
,
Jeffrey A. Stone
Penn State University6000143960001439
,
Program Chairs:
Lina Battestilli
North Carolina State University, USA6000492360004923
,
Samuel A. Rebelsky
Grinnell College60028806
,
Libby Shoop
Macalester College60028787

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Published: 07 March 2024

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SIGCSE 2024: The 55th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education

March 20 - 23, 2024

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Cited By

Papadimitriou SVirvou MPapadimitriou SVirvou M(2025)Contributions and Discussions on Advancing 21st Century Skills Through EPATHLO: Prosocial Educational Games with Artificial IntelligenceArtificial Intelligence—Based Games as Novel Holistic Educational Environments to Teach 21st Century Skills10.1007/978-3-031-77464-5_10(277-309)Online publication date: 21-Jan-2025
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-77464-5_10

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