Abstract
The paper presents the results of our research in the field of applying algorithm visualizations within Data structures and algorithms subject. We accomplished several experiments relating the ability of students to solve simple problems in a pure visual way in one case and by programming the solution using a particular programming language in another one. The experiments are described and the results are analyzed within the paper. In accordance with our previous informal experiences and the results of the analysis we found there can be some part of students, which will be able to apply an algorithm to concrete problem in a visual way, but will not be able to express it clearly enough and implement it in given programming language. As an attempt to cope with the situation, we propose a new teaching approach, together with a prototype of study supporting system, based on the idea that students would participate on creating simple visualizations, not just using them. The purpose of such approach is to help students to develop both types of skills - understanding the algorithms and implementing them as well, by increasing the engagement level and supporting the active learning.
Highlights
Data structures and algorithms, the subject of our interest within the paper, is one of fundamental subjects taught within the bachelor study program at our department
There are many tools for algorithm visualizations available presently, which would indicate that algorithm visualizations are widely used in a field of algorithm and data structures education
The results can be interpreted in a way, that algorithm visualizations provide the solid potential we would like to build upon and examine the new ways of utilizing them in the filed of algorithms and data structures education
Summary
The goal of the subject is to further enhance this skills and to provide the students with fundamental knowledge on data structures, methods for designing algorithms and to asses their efficiency. In experiments described further within the paper we want to contribute to this idea by comparing the results of solving simple problems by students just in visual way in one case and by programming the solution in another one. We think it is very useful to utilize algorithm visualizations in order to help students to understand the basic principles of algorithms operation. According to our experiences, we believe there is still some gap between understanding the basic principles of particular algorithm and the ability to express it clearly enough in a given programming language.
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