Problem Solving to Teach Advanced Algorithms in Heterogeneous Groups

It is notoriously difficult to teach heterogeneous groups. In this article I describe my experience in teaching high-level algorithms to a class of international master students coming from very different backgrounds, how the course evolved in a period spanning five years from a very classical course to a course that focuses highly on solving algorithmic problems in groups, and how that helped in better choosing the themes covered in the course, structuring it using a more definite direction, and better engaging almost all students by making them work on problems they can relate to. This article presents the various axes I chose to follow as well as what was discarded from the initial course. It shows that students are more engaged in learning and more motivated to work, as there is the possibility for everyone to contribute and students can help one another; The course has then become a favorite amongst the other courses of the curriculum. Moreover, the teachers themselves are also more engaged, feel closer to the students, but are also under more pressure as the position changes dramatically from that of a lecturer. This article shows that it takes a lot of time to stabilize to satisfaction and presents recommendations for teachers interested in modifying their courses.