Abstract:

Algorithms and data structures are central terms in computer science. Hence it is necessary that undergraduate students in computer science get deep knowledge in these issues. In practice this is realized by a course “Algorithms and Data Structures” in each computer science curriculum.

In the past, teaching algorithms and data structures was a very hard task. Typically, the algorithm was described in pseudocode and its stepwise execution had to be done with pencil and paper or on the blackboard with chalk and sponge. Another possibility was to implement the algorithm and log the single steps. With the advent of web applications and mobile apps there exists a new way of learning algorithms by interaction, forward and backward step-by-step execution and animations.

There are a lot of apps offering animated algorithms. These apps differ in their features like functionality and usability. Therefore, it is important to have a set of criteria as basis of decision-making which app can be used for which purposes.

In this contribution we first give an overview about different ways of teaching algorithms. Then we sketch different scenarios of using animated algorithm apps. Herefrom we derive a criteria catalogue for these kind of apps. Subsequently the final set of criteria is applied to some apps exemplarily. As a result of this evaluation we state which criteria are fulfilled and where further work has to be done. The paper concludes with a summary and an outlook to future tasks.

Keywords:

Higher Education, Undergraduate, Computer Science, Algorithm, Apps, Criteria Catalogue.