Modernizing the Introductory Computing Sequence: Integrating Parallel and Distributed Computing in CS1 and CS2

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

2-17-2026

Abstract

The rapid evolution of computing demands curricula that reflect modern practices, yet many CS1 and CS2 courses continue to emphasize only sequential programming. This NSF-funded project addresses that gap by designing and disseminating exemplar CS1 and CS2 courses that integrate parallel, distributed, and event-driven computing as core concepts. The materials include unplugged activities and programming labs for both C++ and Java. To ensure broad applicability and adoption, development occurred in collaboration with instructors from six diverse institutions who are now implementing the materials. Evaluation includes surveys, assignment-specific instruments, and cross-team analysis. This poster presents the project’s vision, methods, and resources, highlighting how others can adopt and adapt them to teach modern computing.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

SIGCSE TS 2026 Proceedings of the 57th ACM Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education V 2

First Page

1275

Last Page

1276

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