Multiple representation for understanding data structures

• Main Authors: HANCIES, Biffah, Shankararaman, Venky, MUNOZ, Jose
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 1997
• Subjects: Data structures; Non-computing graduates; Beginning undergraduates in computing; Multiple representations; Computer-based learning; Higher Education; Software Engineering
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/sis_research/62; https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/context/sis_research/article/1061/viewcontent/1_s2.0_S0360131597000286_main.pdf
• Institution: Singapore Management University

In this paper an approach to enhance the learning of abstract computing concepts by novice students is presented. This approach is based on effective use of multiple visual representations, and it was applied within the domain of linear data structures: array, stack, queue and linked list. A prototype computer-based instructional system called MRUDS (Multiple Representation for Understanding Data Structures) was developed and evaluated. It was found from the evaluation that the three presentation modules namely, analogy, representation and algorithm contributed to the students' learning process, each contributing to and reinforcing the effect of the others.