Embedding instructive assertions in program design

David Ginat*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Computer programs are operational schemes. Many programmers design, describe, and justify their programs while solely thinking "operationally". Yet, an operational perspective is insufficient. For many years, the important role of an assertional perspective is advocated. However, this perspective is debated. Many are deterred from employing it, possibly because it is displayed with formal notations and mathematical logic. The objective of this paper is to offer the elaboration of this perspective through a natural, informal embedment of assertions in the design process. The essential, revealing, and instructive role of informal, yet concise and accurate assertions is motivated and elaborated; first through three stimulating illustrations, and then with a general instructional approach.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 9th Annual SIGCSE Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery (ACM)
Pages62-66
Number of pages5
ISBN (Print)1581138369, 9781581138368
DOIs
StatePublished - 2004
EventProceedings of the 9th Annual SIGCSE Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education - Leeds, United Kingdom
Duration: 28 Jun 200430 Jun 2004

Publication series

NameProceedings of the 9th Annual SIGCSE Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education

Conference

ConferenceProceedings of the 9th Annual SIGCSE Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityLeeds
Period28/06/0430/06/04

Keywords

  • Assertions
  • Design Perspectives
  • Pedagogy

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