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Simulation Still Rules: Modern Computer
Systems Architecture Visualized and Laid Bare
Besim Mustafa *
Abstract. Software simulation is an invaluable and indispensable educational tool
in teaching and learning of complex systems' behavior specially when accompa-
nied with effective visualization and animation methods. Examples of simple but
effective visualization and animation methods are presented with reference to a
unique set of tightly-integrated simulators designed to engage and capture the im-
agination of students of modern computer architecture. Several years of practical
experience and development are largely based on user feedback and evaluation
work that are indicative of the positive impact of the simulations on enhancing
learning experiences of the students from basic to advanced levels of study.
1
Introduction
Software simulation is a well know method of studying the behavior of systems
using computer software and has been in use for a long time in many diverse areas
from research through product design to entertainment and accident investigations
thus serving as an invaluable and indispensable tool; it still continues to be so.
In this paper we describe the simulation methods we used to 'bring to life' differ-
ent architectural features of modern computer systems by way of simple but effec-
tive visualizations and animations for educational purposes. Today's students with
learning styles that favor visualizations and animations find simulations engaging,
helpful and supportive in their studies. The visualizations we present as examples
are implemented by our unique integrated system simulator designed to support our
teaching. The novelty in our simulations lies primarily in the way the key concepts
are covered and the interdependencies between them are explored. We took the de-
cision to design our own simulator when we failed to find a simulator that is able to
help visualize the 'big picture' and demonstrate the way different parts of a system
'hang' together; both attributes useful in enabling deeper understanding. Thus the
emphasis of the paper is on the visualization techniques rather than the usability
issues that often concern themselves with user interactions.
 
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