Using Mathcad Debugging Functions as a Teaching Tool
Kenneth P. Brannan, John A. Murden · 2007
Survey results from students taking a computer applications class using Mathcad as a programming language indicate that loops and subscripted variables are difficult topics. In the earlier versions of Mathcad used in the class, it had not been possible to demonstrate with the software package during the early stages of instruction on loops how variables change during the line-by-line execution of a loop. With Mathcad 13, additional debugging tools were included that could be used to monitor variables during the execution of a loop. Student responses in the survey showed that the new debugging tools helped to improve understanding of loops and subscripted variables. While the new features were perceived by over two-thirds of the students to be helpful in the teaching and learning of loops and subscripted variables, other teaching methods such as doing weekly assignments, preparing for weekly tests, playing computer, and working with on-line electronic workbook files were found to be more valuable aids for learning. Students identified the most difficult topic to be nested loops, which is currently being taught as the last topic in the programming sequence. However, three of the relatively difficult topics were taught in the first two weeks, which may contribute to the difficulty experienced by students when they first encounter loops. A review of previously used languages indicated that those languages had features that facilitated the teaching and learning of loops in the early stages of teaching loops.