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Low Fidelity Algorithm Visualization (2001)
| Citations: | 21 - 8 self |
BibTeX
@MISC{Hundhausen01lowfidelity,
author = {Christopher Hundhausen and Sarah A. Douglas},
title = {Low Fidelity Algorithm Visualization},
year = {2001}
}
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Abstract
Computer science educators have traditionally used algorithm visualization (AV) software to create graphical representations of algorithms for use as visual aids in lectures, or as the basis for interactive labs. Typically, such visualizations are high fidelity in the sense that (a) they depict the target algorithm for arbitrary input, and (b) they tend to have the polished look of textbook figures. In contrast, low fidelity visualizations illustrate the target algorithm for a few, carefully chosen input data sets, and tend to have a sketched, unpolished appearance. Drawing on ethnographic field studies of a junior-level algorithms course, we motivate the use of low fidelity AV technology as the basis for an alternative learning paradigm in which students construct their own visualizations, and then present those visualizations to their instructor and peers for feedback and discussion. To explore the design space of low fidelity AV technology, we present SALSA (Spatial ALgorithmic Language for StoryboArding) and ALVIS (ALgorithm VIsualization Storyboarder), a prototype end-user language and system firmly rooted in empirical studies in which students constructed and presented visualizations made out of simple art supplies. Our prototype end-user language and system pioneer a novel technique for programming of visualizations based on spatial relations, and a novel presentation interface that supports human discussions about algorithms by enabling reverse execution and dynamic mark-up and modification. Moreover, the prototype provides an ideal foundation for what we see as the algorithms classroom of the future: the interactive "algorithms studio."
Keyphrases
low fidelity algorithm visualization low fidelity av technology prototype end-user language target algorithm novel presentation interface visual aid novel technique algorithm visualization storyboarder design space junior-level algorithm course unpolished appearance low fidelity visualization polished look spatial relation spatial algorithmic language empirical study arbitrary input computer science educator reverse execution interactive algorithm studio interactive lab high fidelity algorithm visualization algorithm classroom textbook figure graphical representation ethnographic field study alternative learning paradigm input data set dynamic mark-up human discussion ideal foundation simple art supply
