Introducing an Educational Tool for Learning Branch & Bound Strategy

Abstract—According to our informal survey, Branch & Bound strategy is considerably difficult to learn compared to other strategies. This strategy consists of several complex algorithmic steps such as Reduced Cost Matrix (RCM) calculation and Breadth First Search. Thus, to help students understanding this strategy, AP-BB, an educational tool for learning Branch & Bound is developed. This tool includes four modules which are Brute Force solving visualization, Branch & Bound solving visualization, RCM calculator, and case-based performance comparison. These modules are expected to enhance student’s understanding about Branch & Bound strategy and its characteristics. Furthermore, our work incorporates TSP as its case study and Brute Force strategy as a baseline to provide a concrete impact of Branch & Bound strategy. According to our qualitative evaluation, AP-BB and all of its features fulfil student necessities for learning Branch & Bound strategy.   Keywords— Educational Tool; Branch & Bound; Algorithm Strategy; Algorithm Visualization