A Wholistic Model For Teaching Computer And Information Science: Learning On A Whim

This paper outlines a general model for developing the requirements and constraints for the construction of computer science and information education programmes. The model is based upon two key principles: 1) the integration of the elements of information, technology, and people, and 2) the progression of students through higher (more abstract) levels of information leadership. Together, these form the curriculum framework for a Wholistic Information Model, or WhIM. The resulting integration of information, technology, and people into a unified leadership framework serves as an alternative to topical structuring of content for teaching computer and information science, instead introducing core concepts at an early stage and reintroducing them in innovative ways 'across the curriculum'. As illustration, we outline application of the model in an introductory IS/IT course in a university setting.