| Abstract |
| In this paper, we show how visual programming can be used to teach binary tree algorithms. In our approach, the student implements a binary tree algorithm by manipulating abstract tree fragments (not necessarily just single nodes) in a visual way. This work contributes to visual programming research by combining elements of animation, programming, and proof to produce an educational visual programming tool. In addition, we introduce Opsis, a system we built to demonstrate the ideas in this paper. (Opsis is a Java applet and can be accessed at http://www.cs.washington.edu/homes/amir/Opsis.html.) We describe our experience with using Opsis in a data structures and algorithms course at the University of Washington. Finally, we make the claim that visual programming is an ideal way to teach data structure algorithms. [pdf/ps] |
| Keywords |
| Computer animation, computer science education, teaching, tree data structures, visual programming. |
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Amir Michail Last modified: Sat Oct 3 16:19:48 PDT 1998 |