Qualitative Observations
- Midterms in CybSys were more difficult than most other sections, yet students performed better than other sections.
- Mutual support among students was routine. (73-yr old retired postal worker routinely assisted and supported by other students—his “B+” grade was a shared triumph, felt by a community of students)
- Students went from being computer-phobic to professional-- programming business utility applications in databases, for instance.
- Students who were truly peers in initial experience routinely shared lessons learned and became support for each other when having problems.
- Student mutual aid was not easily abused, and students helping others did not “do” the work for them, but supported them in problem solving.
- Students in the CybSys method routinely incorporated their learning into their everyday life and work.
- Some students from the discovery learning session arranged to retake course (not for credit) in CybSys section.