The Roles of Badges in the Computer Science Student Network

Abstract

The Computer Science Student Network (CS2N) is an online learning environment which uses badges – displayable student achievements – in several different capacities. CS2N Small and Medium badges are designed to provide motivation and document progress. These motivational effects persist in testing, consistent with Achievement Goal Theory. Knowledge badges document significant learning milestones and can be laid out along visual Pathways to concretely illustrate curricular flow for all stakeholders, including teachers, students, parents, employers, and even content developers. Teaching badges certify instructors as proficient in pedagogy relating to a Knowledge badge topic, and grant limited administrative rights to approve student progress. High Performance badges leverage learner performance data to identify outstanding students and instructors. Industry badges represent recognized industry certifications and constitute meaningful end goals to each curricular sequence. We believe this framework will support the long-term growth of CS2N, and can serve as a worked example for other badging systems.