FSM Builder: A Tool for Writing Autograded Finite Automata Questions

Eliot Wong Robson, Sam Ruggerio, Jeff Erickson

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Deterministic and nondeterministic finite automata (DFAs and NFAs) are abstract models of computation commonly taught in introductory computing theory courses. These models have important applications (such as fast regular expression matching), and are used to introduce formal language theory. Undergraduate students often struggle with understanding these models at first, due to the level of abstraction. As a result, various pedagogical tools have been developed to allow students to practice with these models. We introduce the FSM Builder, a new pedagogical tool enabling students to practice constructing DFAs and NFAs with a graphical editor, giving personalized feedback and partial credit. The algorithms used for generating these are heavily inspired by previous works. The key advantages to its competitors are greater flexibility and scalability. This is because the FSM Builder is implemented using efficient algorithms from an open source package, allowing for easy extension and question creation. We discuss the implementation of the tool, how it stands out from previous tools, and takeaways from experiences of using the tool in multiple large courses. Survey results indicate the interface and feedback provided by the tool were useful to students.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationITiCSE 2024 - Proceedings of the 2024 Conference Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery
Pages269-275
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9798400706004
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 3 2024
Event29th Conference Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education, ITiCSE 2024 - Milan, Italy
Duration: Jul 8 2024Jul 10 2024

Publication series

NameAnnual Conference on Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education, ITiCSE
Volume1
ISSN (Print)1942-647X

Conference

Conference29th Conference Innovation and Technology in Computer Science Education, ITiCSE 2024
Country/TerritoryItaly
CityMilan
Period7/8/247/10/24

Keywords

  • autograder
  • discrete mathematics
  • finite automata
  • theory education

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Management of Technology and Innovation
  • Education

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