A dual-major course emphasizing computer science and graphic design

This paper presents the design of a mixed-majors undergraduate course for introducing students to computational thinking through making mobile apps. Faculty in computer science and art created the course to include instruction in computer science, graphic design, and the design process. Student enrollment included a cohort advanced in computer science, and one advanced in graphic design, as well as other students. The course was designed to create opportunities for CS majors and graphic design majors to learn from each others' expertises. MIT App Inventor was chosen as the programming platform because of its accessibility to novices, and practical power in being used to make real software products. The paper identifies and presents challenges and opportunities arising from cultural differences between the two disciplines.