Teaching Research Methods for Computer Science Students using Virtual Learning: A Case Study

Sarah Alhumoud, Areeb Alowisheq, Nora Al-Twairesh

Abstract: Research skills are crucial for education, and overall scientific prosperity. In Saudi Arabia, a gap exists in the research skills and knowledge necessary for higher education students. This paper highlights the current state of university curricula in terms of teaching scientific research skills and methods in Saudi Arabia. Also, it presents a low-cost learning model, called ASA research camp, that was applied to bridge the knowledge gap. This exhibits a virtual class that combine qualities of both VLEs and MOOCs. The course spanned three months in two phases: theoretical for listening and discussion, and practical for guided paper writing. Surveys show that the 200 participants had maximum learning value with minimal cost. Moreover, on finishing the course, the members of the practical part, 16 students, were able to publish three papers in Springer Lecture Notes in its Computer Science book series as a result of the guided paper writing phase.