Do algorithm animations assist learning?

TLDR

Algorithm animations are dynamic visual aids used to illustrate computer algorithms, yet no empirical evidence has confirmed their effectiveness. The study examines why algorithm animations may be less effective than expected and proposes guidelines to improve their usefulness. The authors propose guidelines for designing more effective algorithm animations. An empirical study of a priority‑queue animation showed only a modest improvement in student understanding.

Abstract

Algorithm animations are dynamic graphical illustrations of computer algorithms, and they are used as teaching aids to help explain how the algorithms work. Although many people believe that algorithm animations are useful this way, no empirical evidence has ever been presented supporting this belief. We have conducted an empirical study of a priority queue algorithm animation, and the study's results indicate that the animation only slightly assisted student understanding. In this article, we analyze those results and hypothesize why algorithm animations may not be as helpful as was initially hoped. We also develop guidelines for making algorithm animations more useful in the future.