Connecting with Computer Science Students by Building Bridges

Abstract

This article discusses a simulation used with computer science students studying English for specific purposes in a technical writing class at a university in Japan. In this simulation, students were asked to build a paper bridge as a project team and then asked to write up a technical proposal as a team. Language learning goals focused primarily on a team’s ability to write effectively the essential parts of a technical proposal. Success in building the bridge and in the writing process was primarily dependent on a group’s ability to work as a team. A debriefing questionnaire showed that the bridge-building simulation was not only successful in helping students see the purposes of writing a technical proposal but also gave students a feel for resolving tasks as a team. Moreover, the task proved to be highly motivating to the students.