Algorithm animation and its applications in instruction

Algorithm animation is one particular form of software visualization and is concerned with dynamic and interactive graphical displays of an algorithm´s fundamental operations. Through it, learners can be easily to learn the difficult concepts of data structures and algorithms. An overview of algorithm animation and its applications in data structures and algorithms instruction was presented in this paper. We started by defining the concept of algorithm animation and its features. Next, we briefly introduced the history of algorithm animation. Then, we reviewed a series of educational experiences in using algorithm animation. Finally, in order to maximize the teaching potential of algorithm animation, we offered some advice on its design and application. The plan of our future work was also given in this paper. Note that a brief comparative analysis between China and other countries on the research of algorithm animation are presented in the necessary places of the paper.