The visual facilitation of object orientated programming

Abstract

Software development is one of the most actively evolving fields in LT. It is, therefore, important that programmers have the means to adapt to new design and development methodologies, such as that of object orientated programming, as quickly as possible. One of the best ways to catalyze this adaption is through the use of educational software. The advantages of opting for the use of software over conventional teaching mediums such as books and lectures are numerous, such as the interactivity that can be provided and the means to apply the concepts learnt in an actual development environment. The notion of using visual representation and demonstration to make a topic more understandable has been around for centuries. The more sensory stimulation a student receives in the process of learning, the more likely he or she will be to retain the knowledge. It stands to reason that an interactive environment which encourages the student to both observe and participate in the learning process is likely to be far more successful than an environment that lulls the pupil into a state of passive inactivity. This thesis attempts to present an environment in which it is possible to familiarize oneself with the concepts of object orientated programming and to observe the application of these concepts in the C# programming language.