GaniFA NG : The Next Generationof Algorithm Visualizations of FiniteAutomata

Abstract: Software visualization is a promising field in computer science. Visualizationof software-related data deals with aspects that are connected with the visualrepresentation of computational data sets or simulations in order to achievea deeper understanding or a simpler representation of a more complex phenomenon.Interactive software visualizations are also valuable active learningtechniques that can improve explorative learning in computer science. Sincedynamic processes such as the working of an algorithm or the flow of informationbetween computing entities are not well explained by static media styleslike text or images visualization has a substantial role in effective learning.In this thesis, we will study on modernization of an educational softwarecalled GaniFA which was developed for the visualization of finite automata atthe end of 1990s. The modernized software is called GaniFA NG (Next Generation)and enables designing finite automata and simulating all the functioningprocesses.We will discuss benefits of visualization in automata theory learning andthe software development life cycle of our proposed visualization tool in thisreport, and the experience derived from the implementation process will alsobe documented.