Design of an algorithm simulation and animation environment (ASA)

Abstract

This paper proposes a computer based environment to aid in teaching algorithms. The environment is called ASA (Algorithm Simulator and Animator) and it is being developed for SENAC, a Brazilian company, associated to Brazilian National Commerce Confederation, responsible for technical education.The text discusses difficulties in teaching algorithms and suggests the computer as a tool capable of decreasing existing learning barriers. In this context we present the goal of the ASA project. We review other on going projects also oriented towards teaching about algorithms through computers which bear some influence on our work.In sequence, we present the ASA system's arquitecture. The system's three modules are described as: Algorithm Presentor, Animator (Data Animator and Code Animator) and Constructor.The experience gained in implementing the prototype is reported. Dificulties encountered and even implementation details are also reported. The experience provides insights for the project's future directions.We end by discussing the main research areas in operation, that are results from the experience gained.