Teaching and learning parallel processing through performance analysis using Prober

In this paper we analyze the teaching and learning of parallel processing through performance analysis using a software tool called Prober. This tool is a functional and performance analyzer of parallel programs that we proposed and developed during an undergraduate research project. Our teaching and learning approach consists of a practical class where students receive explanations about some concepts of parallel processing and the use of the tool. They do some oriented and simple performance tests on parallel programs and analyze their results using Prober as a single aid tool. Finally, students answer a self-assessment questionnaire about their formation, their knowledge of parallel processing concepts and also about the usability of Prober. Our main goal is to show that students can learn concepts of parallel processing in a clearer, faster and more efficient way using our approach.