Parallel and distributed algorithms laboratory assignments in Joyce/Linda

An NSF ILI grant funded development of laboratories for a three-hour undergraduate course in parallel and distributed algorithms. The course discussed both theoretical and practical areas of study. The laboratories explored various parallel architectures and paradigms and were written using Joyce/Linda, which allows visualisation of both the data movement and the simultaneous execution of the algorithm. The Joyce/Linda software was also utilised to develop parallel and distributed laboratory assignments for courses on data structures, operating systems and computer networks. This paper describes the design and implementation of the laboratories. Initial experiences with the course and assignments are described