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Investigation of tutorials in a core computing subject

Tutorials for large subjects entail a considerable investment of teaching resources. What are we trying to accomplish in this enterprise? Students in a second-year core computing subject, Information Systems 3 (IS3), were surveyed to determine their perceptions and desires regarding the tutorial component of the subject. Survey results were matched to final exam score. Students’ level of participation in the tutorial was the most significant factor in determining outcome on the exam. There was a significant negative effect on exam outcome for those who firstly wanted Answers to Exercises from the tutorials. Students mostly felt they were getting answers to exercises and there was an unfulfilled desire for more explanation of lecture material. Computer-based learning may be a cost effective way to deliver improved tutoring but only if the computer-based systems can perform as true “intelligent” tutoring systems (ITS) and accomplish explanation of material, not just drill-and-practice or on-line answers.