Development of a project-based cooperative learning environment for computer programming courses

One of the important objectives in computer courses is to train students to develop systems cooperatively. Although several existing online systems have provided discussion forums or chatting rooms, more functions need to be provided for conducting project-based cooperative learning activities, such project management, cooperative learning group management, assistance seeking and group working area. In this paper, a cooperative learning system is proposed to assist teachers in conducting project-based cooperative learning activities on the internet. Experimental results show that the system can fulfil the need of students and teachers, and is helpful in enhancing the learning efficacy of students.