Traditional university level introductory programming classes are based upon a desktop based computing paradigm, emphasizing I/O based computations and user interface design. While certainly introducing important concepts, desktop based computing instruction misses a huge and vitally important aspect of computation, namely microprocessor based embedded systems. In this paper, we propose to replace desktop based instruction with a cheap, small, portable computing platform: the Raspberry Pi (RP). RP offers the best of both worlds and at the same time, offers the student to develop complete (and interesting) computing projects. Additionally, we discuss the ramifications on IT infrastructure and IT support resulting from incorporating RP into the computer science curriculum.
