1 Interactive Applets for Introductory Courses on Computer Architecture Authors:

Abstract The basic concepts in the field of computer architecture have proved to be difficult to teach by just describing them. The discrete nature of processor behaviour, and the lack of powerful abstract models for modelling this behaviour, means that a complete detailed description is necessary. Many students find passive classroom study insufficiently motivating and interesting- specially in subjects such as: assembly language programming, input-output management, data-path behaviour, etc. To practice with real systems is the ideal solution but real systems are often costly or too complex. Interactive simulators do not have these disadvantages and then they are a very valuable complement of lectures and readings, because they allow the student to try and to see what happens. This interactive practice with a simplified representation of a computer, that mimics a real one, increases the student interest in the field and makes his understanding more complete and durable. We present a Java applet that supports student understanding of assembly language programming. After testing its success among students it will serve as a base to develop more applets oriented to other computer architecture issues. We have chosen Java technology because it is integrated in the web and then universally available. Java applets are also easier to maintain and distribute than native applications, and they can be embedded in web documents. Index Terms Computer architecture, interactive teaching tools, Java applets, simulation