The magic of algorithm design and analysis: teaching algorithmic skills using magic card tricks

• Type: Article in International Conference Proceedings Book
• Date: 2014

Authors

Ferreira, JF (Author) Other; Mendes, A (Author) Other

Conference proceedings International

Title: Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education Conference 2014, ITiCSE '14, Uppsala, Sweden, June 23-25, 2014

Pages: 75-80

2014 Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education Conference, ITICSE 2014

Uppsala, 21 June 2014 through 25 June 2014

Indexing

Scopus - 6 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-009-PG5

DOI: 10.1145/2591708.2591745

Abstract (EN): We describe our experience using magic card tricks to teach algorithmic skills to first-year Computer Science undergraduates. We illustrate our approach with a detailed discussion on a card trick that is typically presented as a test to the psychic abilities of an audience. We use the trick to discuss concepts like problem decomposition, pre- and post-conditions, and invariants. We discuss pedagogical issues and analyse feedback collected from students. The feedback has been very positive and encouraging. © 2014 ACM.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific