The knob & switch computer: A computer architecture simulator for introductory computer science

The Knob & Switch Computer is a computer architecture simulatordesigned to teach beginning students the basics of computerorganization. It differs from existing simulators in twosignificant ways: (1) it incorporates cognitive hooks in the formof knobs and switches that encourage exploration and discovery onthe part of the student; and (2) it can be presented one componentat a time, starting with a simple interactive data path andbuilding incrementally to a full-featured stored program machine.Both of these features make it possible to engage beginningstudents and effectively convey an understanding of how computerswork. The Knob & Switch Computer simulator can also motivatethe study of other computing topics such as data representation,assembly language programming, and RISC vs. CISC architectures. Inaddition to describing the Knob & Switch Computer, we discussexperiences using the simulator in breadth-based introductorycourses both at Dickinson College and Creighton University.

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