On novices' local views of algorithmic characteristics

David Ginat*

*Corresponding author for this work

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

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

The solution of an algorithmic task requires rigorous insight, based on the task's characteristics. Problem solvers seek insight in diverse ways, from different points of view. Experts usually seek a global, assertional perspective. Such a perspective is not natural to many novices, who often turn to local viewpoints. However, such points of view may yield erroneous outcomes. This study displays three different facets of novices' improper local points of view. The three facets involve local substructures, greedy traps, and unsuitable design patterns. Novices' erroneous solutions to three colorful tasks are described and analyzed, in comparison with the desired solutions, and suggestions are made for elaborating student awareness of the need for a global, rigorous point of view in algorithmic problem solving.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInformatics Education - The Bridge between Using and Understanding Computers - International Conference in Informatics in Secondary Schools - Evolution and Perspectives, ISSEP 2006, Proceedings
PublisherSpringer Verlag
Pages127-137
Number of pages11
ISBN (Print)3540482180, 9783540482185
DOIs
StatePublished - 2006
Event1st International Conference in Informatics in Secondary Schools - Evolution and Perspectives, ISSEP 2006 - Vilnius, Lithuania
Duration: 7 Nov 200611 Nov 2006

Publication series

NameLecture Notes in Computer Science (including subseries Lecture Notes in Artificial Intelligence and Lecture Notes in Bioinformatics)
Volume4226 LNCS
ISSN (Print)0302-9743
ISSN (Electronic)1611-3349

Conference

Conference1st International Conference in Informatics in Secondary Schools - Evolution and Perspectives, ISSEP 2006
Country/TerritoryLithuania
CityVilnius
Period7/11/0611/11/06

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