Scripted Collaboration to Leverage the Impact of Algorithm Visualization Tools in Online Learning: Results from Two Small Scale Studies

This work presents research evidence on the impact of a collaboration script to leverage the use of an Algorithm Visualization AV system as a tool for experimentation and reflection in the context of online collaboration. The objective of the authors' effort is to improve the learning conditions when AV systems are used as online learning tools, avoiding situations where unguided collaboration may result in suboptimal peer interaction. Results from two studies are reported, where university students collaborated online following the steps of a reciprocal peer tutoring script and using two different AV systems to visualize their solutions on specific algorithm-related learning tasks. Discourse analysis based on an appropriately extended IBIS model and further statistical analysis indicate that the use of the collaboration script enhances the task-related peer interaction and consequently the intrinsic feedback that peers receive from interacting with the AV system, something expected to lead to improved learning outcomes. The implication for AV system designers is that the inclusion of a collaboration script component in the system design is strongly encouraged as a means to augment the expected benefits from online collaborative learning tasks.

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