Fionnuala O'donnell

A Simulation Framework for the Teaching and Learning of Distributed Algorithms Fionnuala O'donnell

A spectrum of algorithm animation systems has evolved for the teaching and learning of distributed algorithms. These have ranged from passive animation systems, which provide multiple prepared views of an algorithm¿s process for a learner to view, stop, pause, step through or rewind, through active simulation systems, which enable a learner to affect changes to the behavior of an algorithm during execution, to algorithm construction systems, which enable a learner to create an animation of an algorithm¿s behavior. However, these systems have failed to catch on in mainstream computer science education. This is because each system suffers from one or more shortcomings: lack of real time engagement with an algorithm¿s content, an under-developed model of pedagogy, time and effort required to build an algorithm simulation, and lack of evidence to support its pedagogical effectiveness. This book presents an algorithm animation system (FADA) which is designed to address the aforementioned challenges.