A pedagogical framework for introducing Java I/O in CS1

The role of Java for teaching CS1 has received considerable attention. A common concern of many educators is that the Java I/O paradigm is too challenging for novice programmers and that significant time must be devoted to the subject. This additional time may take away from the traditional CS1 content. Four strategies for teaching Java I/O in CS1 are reviewed herein. Text-based versus GUI-based applications represent the two extremes. Advantages and disadvantages are provided for each approach. A description of preliminary work to develop a Java package that makes implementing GUI applications simple is given, with the objective of preparing students for the eventual transition to the Java AWT.