Developing laboratories for the SIGCSE computing laboratory repository: guidelines, recommendations, and sample labs

Abstract

We focus on the practical issue of designing laboratory activities, concentrating on identifying key components necessary to insure quality and usefulness in the on-line SIGCSE Computing Laboratory Repository. We summarize the current capabilities and future extensions of the Repository, characterize a variety of qualities necessary and recommended for successful laboratory activities, identify a standard cover page for all lab activity submissions, and specify some guidelines for referees of submitted materials. Finally, we have designed four sample laboratory projects. Their contents are summarized in this paper and the completed projects will be available from the Repository after student testing in the Fall of 1997, if not sooner.