Programming by example and computer-aided teaching of algorithmics: the MELBA project

ABSTRACT

Usability issues in programming languages and associated environments are the topic of multiple studies, which led to the creation of many innovating ≪programming systems≫ where the user is the center of the design process, allowing non-programmers to create programs without understanding the underlaying concepts. In this paper, we describe the MELBA environment (for Metaphor based Environment to Learn how to Build Algorithms). Its purpose is to use advanced visual and example-based programming techniques to support Computer Science (specifically Algorithmic) learning in higher education, by using concrete examples and metaphors.

REFERENCES

• 1: 1. Kaasboll, J., Learning Programming, 2002, University of Oslo.
• 2: 2. Pea, R.D., Language-Independent Conceptual "Bugs" in Novice Programming. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 1986. 2(1): p. 25-36.
• 3: Jakob Nielsen, Usability Engineering, Morgan Kaufmann Publishers Inc., San Francisco, CA, 1993
• 4: 4. Caroll, J.M., The NurnBerg Funnel. 1990, Cambridge: MIT Press.
• 5: 5. Kahn, K., How Any Program Can Be Created by Working with Examples, in Your Wish is My Command, H. Lieberman, Editor. 2001. p. 21-44.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.3 Group and Organization Interfaces
          Subjects: Collaborative computing

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.3 Group and Organization Interfaces
          Subjects: Web-based interaction; Organizational design

General Terms:
Algorithms, Human Factors

Keywords:
computer-aided teaching & Learning, programming by demonstration, visual programming