Challenges of Computer Science Tutors in Their Teaching: How can Educational Technology help?

Abstract

Tutorial sessions led by student tutors are an essential part of teaching in large classes, e. g. in Computer Science (CS), to provide personal support and to guide learning. Although universities offer training and educators conduct regular meetings to assist tutors, the use of technology in their teaching practice is mostly unknown. This paper presents exploratory insights from focus group interviews with CS tutors to reveal tutors’ challenges, needs and current usage of educational technology in their teaching. The results show a lack of use of technology by tutors to improve their teaching or to gather useful information about their group in a structured way. The potential of educational technology to enhance tutorial sessions remains largely untapped. Possible technology-driven approaches and ideas proposed by tutors are discussed. Based on these initial results, the goal is to develop tailored technology-enhanced support and provide relevant information to tutors in the future.