Enhancing Code Understanding through Visualization: An Exploration of Fault-Localizing Heat Maps in Computer Science Education

In today's computer science education, providing students with effective tools for debugging and fault localization is crucial. To address this need, researchers have been exploring innovative approaches to help students identify and correct defects in their code. One such approach is the use of visualization techniques, particularly heat maps, which can greatly facilitate the understanding of complex software systems.

In a recent study, we employed a tool suite that integrated statistical fault location (SFL) analysis with heat map visualization to help students improve their code. The tool suite was used by students in our introductory CS course during the Fall 2017 semester, and their perceptions on its utility were surveyed afterwards.

The results showed that the visualization significantly aided students in understanding how to find and correct defects in their code. Moreover, a manual inspection of student code demonstrated that the SFL technique identified the defective method in the first three most suspicious methods with an accuracy rate of 90%. This highlights the potential of heat maps as a valuable tool for debugging and fault localization.

By applying this technique to a set of previously-submitted student assignments, we were able to provide indications of test case failures or runtime errors. However, without proper debugging skills, students often struggle to identify the source of these issues. The integration of SFL analysis with heat map visualization aims to bridge this gap by providing students with an intuitive way to visualize and understand their code.

In conclusion, the use of fault-localizing heat maps has the potential to greatly enhance code understanding in computer science education. By integrating SFL analysis with visualization techniques, we can provide students with a more effective means of identifying and correcting defects in their code. This approach can lead to improved debugging skills and overall programming abilities.

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