Approaches and Tools for Experiential Learning of Abstract Concepts

Some students prefer a concrete approach to learning whereas others prefer an abstract one. Algorithms perform transformations of information, thus they have an abstract nature. Consequently, many students have difficulties in their study. We present two computer-supported approaches to experiential learning of algorithms. On the one hand, program visualization automatically generates graphical representations of the behavior of algorithms, making visible the virtual. On the other hand, algorithm benchmarking gathers and compares data of the performance of several algorithms, making visible their properties with respect to given criteria. The chapter includes a brief motivation and introduction to these issues, followed by a treatment of each educational approach. For each approach, we present an introduction to its foundations, relevant features of educational systems intended to support them, and ways of using them in algorithm courses. We also deal with the successful instructional integration of program visualization and algorithm benchmarking systems into algorithm courses.