SEED: A software tool and an active‐learning strategy for data structures courses

Abstract

SEED is a software tool designed for Java consisting of a class library and a set of simulators to facilitate learning of the main data structures. The educational component is based on an active case‐solving methodology accompanied by a pedagogical strategy. This strategy allows for the development of a multilayer‐model‐programming work for the construction of basic and advanced applications in real domains and for integration of its use, development and operation assessment with data structures. The evaluation results of SEED as a pedagogical mediator in the issue of binary trees is presented. The evaluation indicates that students prefer to use SEED due to its simplicity and attractive GUIs which facilitate data structures learning.

Supporting Data Structures Visualization for Teachers and Learners

“…Baloian et al [2] concentrate on the problem of lack of interactivity in many of the previously developed systems and that fact is crucial for the proper involvement of the learner in order to have a successful learning experience. Adarme and Molinares [3] stress the importance of visualization in real contexts thus focusing on structures defined using Java. The SWAN system [4] focuses the discussion on animation, providing support limited to a few well-known data structures.…”

Combining the project‐based learning methodology and computer simulation to enhance the engagement in the context of Environmental Engineering courses

“…The concept of ALC involves a huge family of techniques with the common aim of minimising the barrier between teacher and student, allowing the collaborative and global learning by dynamic, interdisciplinary and proactive activities [1,11,17]. This concept includes, among others, team-based projects, cooperative learning and flipped classes, different tools with the common point of shifting the teachers' role from a content deliverer to a learning coach and facilitator [2,28].…”

Implementation and Evaluation of Active-learning Techniques: Adaptable Activities for a Variety of Engineering Courses

“…The advantage of creating a library of active learning activities is to help new instructors to become more effective and efficient in teaching and also to provide senior instructors with some tested activities that they can adopt based on their desires and needs. There have been several efforts in developing a library of active learning activities in various disciplines [7][8][9][10][11] . Bohnhoff and Sample-Lord created a library of group activities to promote active learning in the undergraduate soil mechanics classroom [7].…”