Teaching modeling using Umple: Principles for the development of an effective tool

Umple is a model-oriented programming technology designed to teach modeling while at the same time being practical for industrial application. In this paper we discuss six principles we followed in order to ensure Umple can be effective as a learning resource: being highly usable, facilitating incremental learning, providing an experience of positive reinforcement in learners, convincing learners about the value of the material, broadening learning opportunities, and being inexpensive.