Learning programming using program visualization techniques

This paper describes the programming knowledge and skills that learners need to develop, and concludes that this is an area of computer science education where those involved in the teaching of programming need to further explore the nature, structure and function of domain specific knowledge. It has been argued that conceptual models can serve to enhance learners´ conceptual understanding of programming. The methods used to enhance the development of accurate mental models include: designing the interface so that users can interact actively with it; using metaphors and analogies to explain concepts; and using spatial relationships so that users can develop capabilities for mental simulations. With the insights afforded by looking more closely at conceptual understanding, we describe how visualization techniques may effectively be used in the learning and reaching of programming.