PathFinder: A Visualization eMathTeacher for Actively Learning Dijkstra's Algorithm

PathFinder is a new eMathTeacher for actively learning Dijkstra's algorithm. In [Sánchez-Torrubia, M. G., C. Torres-Blanc and J. B. Castellanos, Defining eMathTeacher tools and comparing them with e&bLearning web based tools, in: Proceedings of the International Conference on Engineering and Mathematics (ENMA), 2007] the concept of eMathTeacher was defined and the minimum as well as some additional requirements were described. The tool presented here is an enhanced paradigm of this new concept on Computer Aided Instruction (CAI) resources: an application designed following the eMathTeacher philosophy for active eLearning. The highlighting new feature provided by this application is an animated algorithm visualization panel showing, on the code, the current step the student is executing and/or where there is a user's mistake within the algorithm running. PathFinder also includes another two interesting new features: an active framework area for the algorithm data and the capability of saving/retrieving the created graph.