Integrating reflective writing in CS/IS

The ability to communicate effectively is a critical attribute for graduates of CS/IS programs. A challenge for CS/IS educators is how best to create experiential learning activities for students that allow for enhanced learning outcomes. In this paper we summarize a set of experiential learning activities coupled with the use of reflective writing. These activities are designed to build cognitive connections between academic theory and real-world applications. Sample experiences for both the freshmen and upper division levels are described, as well as discussion of and the results obtained from reflective writing activities.