Author(s)

E. Currie

Abstract

The effects of changes in the methods of delivery on a course in formal specification E. Currie School of Computing, University of North London, Holloway Road, London, N7 8DB, UK Abstract This paper discusses the experience of teaching formal methods of specification in today's rapidly changing teaching environment, characterised by increasing class sizes, decreasing class contact hours and mixed ability student groups. These problems are particularly acute in the area of formal methods, where students require much practical experience to get a 'feel' for the subject, and some mathematical knowledge is a prerequisite. Various changes in the content and method of delivery of a specific unit are described, which were aimed at alleviating these problems. Qualitative evidence of the effect of these changes on the student experience and quantitative evidence of the effect on performance in assessments is presented. The outcomes from the first year following imp

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