Concept visualization in CS0 using ALICE
John Paul Dougherty · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2007
CS0 provides non-major and pre-major students with a tour of computing, touching the big ideas and their implications. The most important idea, arguably, is the algorithm and its implementation as a program. Deep treatment in a limited time (three weeks) for these students is challenging at best. We describe six Alice virtual worlds that engage students and illustrate a set of important algorithm concepts. These example worlds act as a springboard for students to construct their own. Assessments from students and faculty indicate that learning about algorithms is as effective and potentially more engaging for novice computing students; however, technical issues are distracting at present.