Game playing as a technique for teaching parallel computing concepts

Blackboard tracing of algorithms, while an effective tool for the teaching of sequential programming, is singularly ineffective and confusing when applied to parallel computing. The use of classroom games to illustrate concepts and pathologies proves to be a useful alternative technique. Games in which students play the role of processors can be used to illustrate simple parallel algorithms as well as more complex concepts. Live demonstrations are stimulating for both the participants and the class as a whole. This paper discusses guidelines regarding the development of such exercises and presents several examples.