International Journal of Computer Architecture Education

WIMS : A Modern Web-Based MIPS Simulator for Improved Learning in Computer Architecture and Operating Systems

Reinaldo Assis — 2024-12-15

The MIPS processor is well-regarded in teaching Computer Architecture and Operating Systems due to its simpler architecture and efficient design. Simulators are a highly effective method for learning MIPS. Current simulators, like MARS, face issues such as lack of data path visualization, outdated interfaces, and installation requirements, which impede student learning. This work aims to develop an accessible online MIPS simulator featuring a modern code editor, data path visualization, step-by-step execution, and memory visualization. The simulator runs in a web browser, eliminating installation barriers and enhancing usability. This tool aims to improve the educational experience and deepen students’ understanding of MIPS architecture and assembly programming.

An Experience Report on the Use of Active Methodologies in Building Parallel Computational Thinking

Helder Daniel de Azevedo Dias — 2024-12-15

In recent years, education experts have frequently discussed the teaching and learning process, particularly regarding the promotion of more constructive, participatory, motivating, and critical learning from students. In this context, important methodologies have gained prominence, including Active Methodologies and Computational Thinking. This paper uses Active Methodologies (Project-Based and Gamification) as stimulating tools in the teaching and learning process of a workshop aimed at building Parallel Computational Thinking. The topics covered, such as the assembly and configuration of a Beowulf cluster and an introduction to Parallel Programming concepts, targeted students from the Technical courses in Computer Science and Computer Maintenance and Support at the Federal Institute of Pará – Abaetetuba Campus. The choice of this audience is justified by the lack of these topics in their respective curricula. The results were satisfactory, as students highlighted, in the evaluation, not only the importance of the concepts covered but also a high level of acceptance and motivation regarding the methodologies used.

Celestial Suite: uma Ferramenta para a Tradução e Execução de Código de Três Endereços

Guilherme Galante — 2024-12-15

The article describes the development and evaluation of a didactic tool called Celestial Suite, designed for teaching compilers. The tool converts programs described in three-address code into MIPS assembly, in addition to allowing emulation and execution through a virtual machine. Student feedback indicated that the tool is effective as an educational resource but suggested improvements, such as more accurate error messages, editor tips, and better documentation.

Integrating Continuous Assessment into Undergraduate Computer Architecture using Automated Grading

Lucas Wanner — 2024-12-15

Continuous assessment (CA) improves student engagement and understanding through regular evaluations and rapid feedback. This approach was integrated into a foundational Computer Architecture course using frequent quizzes. To manage large class sizes and limited teaching assistance, automated grading software was used. This paper discusses the implementation of automated grading for quizzes, detailing the process, and presenting course results and student feedback. Observations based on student feedback and outcomes suggest that integrating CA through quizzes is beneficial for student engagement and learning.

MIPS Processor Implemented in a Visual Simulator for Educational Use

Christofer Rodrigues — 2024-12-15

Computer Architecture and Organization (AOC) is a common component in Computer Science programs. Due to the physical characteristics of the objects studied in this subject, it is not possible to bring a way to visualize how these objects function as if we were looking at the gears of a clock. From the observation of some studies, we found that the use of simulators contributes to improving this situation. However, these software tools usually simulate the functioning of the architecture without showing how it works or lack ways to interact with the simulated circuit. This paper presents the Aperture Project, delivering incremental implementations of a MIPS processor, ranging from a single-cycle to a pipeline with forwarding and branch buffers, using the Logisim digital circuit simulator. In this project, users can execute code on the processor, visualize its operation, and modify the circuit. The goal of this work is to collaborate with AOC education by providing material focused on visualizing and interacting with the simulated circuit.

Developing Tools for Teaching RISC-V with Python, Verilog, Matplotlib, SVG, and ChatGPT

Guilherme A. R. de Figueiredo — 2024-12-15

The use of simulators is a facilitator for teaching computer architecture. However, the development of simulators and visualization tools provides a deeper understanding for students. This paper presents various tools for teaching RISC-V processor design. To motivate students, we used the Google Colab environment with Python to develop high-level implementations, alongside the Verilog language for more detailed RISC-V implementations. Interactive interfaces with graphical visualizations using the Matplotlib library and SVG vector format are presented. Due to Python's popularity, development is facilitated with the support of language models like ChatGPT to partially generate code for interfaces and visualizations. This work was developed in collaboration with students from the Computer Architecture course at the Federal University of Viçosa. All tools are open-source, aiming to be continued and serve as a foundation for exercises, examples, and more educational tools.

Review of the Book "Computer Architecture and Organization: An Introduction"

Gabriel P. Silva — 2024-12-15

This article presents a review of the book "Computer Architecture and Organization: An Introduction," published by LTC – Technical and Scientific Books in July 2024. The book is a comprehensive and affordable text for exploring the fundamentals and innovations in Computer Architecture, aimed at undergraduate education in Bachelor's and Teaching degrees in Computer Science, as well as Computer Engineering, Data Science, and other technology courses in informatics.

Enhancing Computer Architecture Learning with a Spiral Curriculum

Leonardo Bidese de Pinho — 2024-12-15

This paper presents preliminary experiences, particularly in developing competencies in the field of Computer Architecture and Organization (AOC), achieved through the application of the Active Methodology of Project-Based Learning (PBL) in the new spiral curriculum of the Computer Engineering (CE) course. It analyzes the perspective of students in third-semester courses: Integrative Project II (IP-2) and the new AOC. It highlights difficulties with teaching materials and the process of creating new materials focused on PBL, followed by a discussion on the formative paths and student performance observed through evaluation instruments and self-assessments. The conclusions highlight alignment with the desired characteristics for graduates, confirming the potential of adopting the spiral approach to improve learning in CE, particularly in AOC.