How do you teach algorithms to the less experienced?

1 Define the problem

Before you dive into the algorithm, you need to clarify the problem you are trying to solve. What are the inputs, outputs, and constraints? What are the assumptions and edge cases? How do you measure the performance and correctness of the solution? By defining the problem clearly, you will help your students understand the goal and scope of the algorithm, as well as the trade-offs and limitations involved.

2 Use examples and analogies

One of the best ways to teach algorithms is to use concrete examples and analogies. Examples can illustrate how the algorithm works step by step, and how it handles different scenarios and inputs. Analogies can help your students relate the algorithm to something familiar or intuitive, such as sorting books, finding a path, or playing a game. By using examples and analogies, you will make the algorithm more accessible and engaging for your students.

3 Explain the logic and intuition

Another key aspect of teaching algorithms is to explain the logic and intuition behind the algorithm. Why does the algorithm work? How does it achieve the desired result? What are the key ideas and insights that drive the algorithm? How does it compare to other possible solutions? By explaining the logic and intuition, you will help your students understand the rationale and reasoning of the algorithm, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the approach.

4 Show the code and pseudocode

Once you have explained the logic and intuition of the algorithm, you can show the code and pseudocode of the algorithm. Code is the actual implementation of the algorithm in a specific programming language, while pseudocode is a simplified and generic representation of the algorithm that can be easily translated into any language. By showing the code and pseudocode, you will help your students see how the algorithm translates into executable instructions, as well as the syntax and style of the language.

5 Demonstrate the execution and testing

After you have shown the code and pseudocode of the algorithm, you can demonstrate the execution and testing of the algorithm. Execution is the process of running the code and observing the output and behavior of the algorithm. Testing is the process of verifying the correctness and performance of the algorithm using various inputs and cases. By demonstrating the execution and testing, you will help your students see how the algorithm works in practice, as well as how to debug and improve the algorithm.

6 Provide resources and exercises

Finally, you can provide resources and exercises for your students to learn more and practice the algorithm. Resources can include books, articles, videos, or websites that explain or illustrate the algorithm in more depth or detail. Exercises can include problems, challenges, or projects that require or apply the algorithm in different contexts or domains. By providing resources and exercises, you will help your students deepen their knowledge and skills of the algorithm, as well as stimulate their curiosity and creativity.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?