Our focus is on understanding how students use animations in trying to comprehend new algorithms, and on gaining insight into the incorporation of AV as a non-passive tool in the learning process. The tutorial is structured around existing AV tools written in Java. Such tools offer two key advantages. First, they are portable and hence will be usable by all participants in the tutorial. This makes it relatively easy to integrate visualizations with hypertext study materials.
Tutorial activities overview is available here .
Visualization programs will be used to demonstrate the workings of various data compression algorithms. Participants will receive handouts, and references to available textbooks and articles, web sites and software packages. Modeled after organic evolution, these powerful search algorithms are based on the mechanics of natural selection and natural genetics. Participants will use the software package LibGA throughout the workshop, thus getting a hands-on experience with the workings of genetic algorithms. The workshop will also provide a summary of applications, and references to available articles, web sites, and software packages for genetic algorithms.