Animation Aided Problem Solving (AAPS)

Animation is a standard technique in computer-aided instruction. The project aims at applying the methods of algorithm animation in problem solving. The idea is based on the internal similarity of algorithm design and problem solving.

Traditionally animations were coded by hand demanding much time. We have developed two systems for fast generation of animations for algorithms. Eliot works on Linux workstations and Jeliot runs on the World-Wide Web. The speed of generation is one of the key factors of the applicability of the approach.

Besides generation of algorithm animations we have studied how to prepare animations of simple algorithms with the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet program. We are also developing ways to use Excel animations in problem solving. This approach is important because of the wide availability of Excel. In addition to animation we are making tools for creating and and managing concept maps in education and problem solving.

Our topics lie in the borderland of computer science and education, and the research is carried out as a joint project with the Department of Teacher Education. Current members of the AAPS group are Doc. Jorma Tarhio (group leader), Assoc. Prof. Veijo Meisalo (Department of Teacher Education ), Ph.Lic. Erkki Sutinen, Erkki Rautama, and Tommi Teräsvirta. The group has got funding from the Ministry of Education and University of Helsinki in 1996-98.

Publications: [69, 273, 281, 284-286, 289, 290].

Home Page: http://www.cs.helsinki.fi/research/aaps/