Date of Award

Summer 8-2011

Degree Type

Thesis-Restricted

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Program

Computer Science

Department

Computer Science

Major Professor

Tu, Shengru

Second Advisor

DePano, Adlai

Third Advisor

Taylor, Christopher

Abstract

The thesis aims at teaching various data structures algorithms using the Visualization Learning tool. The main objective of the work is to provide a learning opportunity for novice computer science students to gain a broader exposure towards data structure programming. The visualization learning tool is based on the Verification-Driven Learning model developed for software engineering. The tool serves as a platform for demonstrating visualizations of various data structures algorithms. All the visualizations are designed to emphasize the important operational features of various data structures. The learning tool encourages students into learning data structures by designing Learning Cases. The Learning Cases have been carefully designed to systematically implant bugs in a properly functioning visualization. Students are assigned the task of analyzing the code and also identify the bugs through quizzing. This provides students with a challenging hands-on learning experience that complements students’ textbook knowledge. It also serves as a significant foundation for pursuing future courses in data structures.

Rights

The University of New Orleans and its agents retain the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible this dissertation or thesis in whole or part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. The author retains all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis or dissertation.

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