I CAN HAS SUPERCOMPUTER? A Novel Approach to Teaching Parallel and Distributed Computing Concepts Using a Meme-Based Programming Language

TL;DR

This paper introduces a fun, meme-based programming language extension to teach parallel and distributed computing concepts to undergraduates, aiming to boost engagement and understanding.

Contribution

It presents a novel, meme-inspired programming language extension for teaching parallel computing, implemented via a source-to-source compiler for educational purposes.

Findings

Engages students through humorous programming language extensions.

Enables development of parallel algorithms in a familiar, accessible language.

Potential to increase interest and creativity in learning complex computing concepts.

Abstract

A novel approach is presented to teach the parallel and distributed computing concepts of synchronization and remote memory access. The single program multiple data (SPMD) partitioned global address space (PGAS) model presented in this paper uses a procedural programming language appealing to undergraduate students. We propose that the amusing nature of the approach may engender creativity and interest using these concepts later in more sober environments. Specifically, we implement parallel extensions to LOLCODE within a source-to-source compiler sufficient for the development of parallel and distributed algorithms normally implemented using conventional high-performance computing languages and APIs.