ALGO+, an assessment tool for algorithmic competencies

Abstract

Many systems for learning programming have been developed in view of learning programming is difficult. Unfortunately, a few tools for learning algorithmic have been developed. In this paper, we present Algo+, a tool based on Information and Communications Technology (ICT), to assess algorithmic competencies. Its pedagogical aim is purchasing algorithmic competencies, analyzing ability and refinement steps strategy to resolve a problem. Algo+ gives a problem to learner and let him/her resolve it graphically in terms of basic and elementary operations (operation well known in algorithmic) using the refinement steps strategy. After constructing solution, the last one is submitted to, not only a formative and diagnostic assessment (a formative feedback) but also a summative assessment. The role of this tool is to assess algorithmic skills and to make an evolutionary base of pedagogical errors for reusing it to enhancing the student's problem solving abilities.