On Teaching Abstraction in Computer Science to Novices

摘要

Abstraction is a key concept in computer science (CS), and one of the most fundamental ideas underlying its practice. However, teaching this soft concept to novices is a very difficult task, as has been emphasized by many computer science education (CSE) experts. This paper discusses this issue and suggests a general framework for teaching abstraction in CS to novices, a framework that would fit into most kinds of introductory courses. While this paper draws on some anecdotal evidence to support its claims, it is not an empirical work. Rather, it builds on the research literature and experience to outline some concrete rules that can contribute to teaching abstraction.