Teaching algorithms

Abstract

In this paper we propose and discuss how to teach algorithms, including contents, methodologies, textbooks, and computer labs. We use the ACM/IEEE curricula as a starting point and compare our proposal to theirs. We raise several issues, but we do not provide definite answers. Our main proposal is a paradigm driven methodology for the main algorithmic course, as well as some paradigms and problems not usually covered. An ultimate teaching algorithm is still an open problem.