AlCoLab: Architecture of Algorithm Visualization System

This work concerns the design of script supported algorithm visualization systems for educational purposes, focusing on the support and the enhancement that those systems provide in the process of teaching of an abstract subject such as algorithms. Research on algorithm visualization (AV) systems indicates that their use can improve the understanding of algorithms when compared with the traditional ways of teaching. However, the design of AV systems does not reflect current research-based guidelines regarding productive pedagogical methods for algorithm learning. We suggest that the effectiveness of AV systems as e-learning tools can be improved by facilitating scripted collaboration of learners when working with visual representation of algorithms. This work in progress presents the architecture of AlCoLab, an AV system that also implements collaboration scripts as a tool to guide students in creative teamwork.