CIS Discussions week1

Structure of a Visual Basic program

Visual Studio Express programming environment

Week 1 Discussion 1

CIS201 Programming

Discussion 1

Resources
Read/review the following resources for this activity: 

· Schneider: Chapters 1.3, 1.4

· Lecture 1: Programming Fundamentals 

Introduction: Problem Solving

The IDEAL problem solving strategy was developed during the 1960s and 70s and is based on the idea that, if you learn the strategy, you can apply it to any problem situation on any topic. It is useful in solving challenges faced in daily life, or technology-related problems.

There are 5 steps that represent the acronym IDEAL:

1 Identify the problem
Write the problem in your own words

2 Define the problem by sorting through the relevant information
List all plans considered

3 Explore the possible options through brainstorming
Which strategy is used and why
Estimate and predict a reasonable solution

4 Action the strategy selected
Apply the solution

5 Look back and evaluate the results of your actions
Does the solution make sense, is it reasonable?
Reflect on experience

Initial Post Instructions

For this discussion, describe a frustrating technology-related problem which you recently encountered. Solve it again using the strategies from the IDEAL problem solving method. Be sure to list each step in the IDEAL method with detail to respond to each step like this:

· Problem identification:

· Problem definition:

· Solution options:

· Solution application:

· Solution evaluation:

In hindsight, what learning occurred in this specific situation that you can apply to a future situation?

Secondary Post Instructions
For your secondary postings, respond to your classmates by inquiring about their experience and how they arrived at their solution. Do you agree with the solution, or is there a better resolution listed in the strategies they listed in Step 3?

Writing Requirements

· In addition to one initial post, respond to at least two peers.

· Initial Post Length: minimum of 250 words

· Secondary Post Length: minimum of 200 words per post 

Grading and Assessment

Meeting the minimum number of postings does not guarantee an A; you must present an in-depth discussion of high quality, integrate sources to support your assertions, and refer to peers’ comments in your secondary posts to build on concepts. 

This activity will be graded using the Discussion Forum Grading Rubric (in Course Documents).

Course Learning Outcome(s): 2, 3 
2.   Develop critical thinking skills. 
3.   Understand object oriented programming languages.

Due Date for Initial Post: By 11:55 pm ET on Wednesday

Due Date for Secondary Posts: By 11:55 pm ET on Saturday