This paper illustrates how the notion of pattern can be used in the automatic analysis and synthesis of diagrams, applied particularly to the automatic marking of ER-diagrams. The paper describes how diagram patterns fit into a general framework for diagram interpretation and provides examples of how patterns can be exploited in other fields. Diagram patterns are defined and specified within the area of ER-diagrams. The paper also shows how patterns are being exploited in a revision tool for understanding ER-diagrams. Categories and Subject Descriptors K.3.2 [Computer and Information Systems Education]: computer science education. General Terms Experimentation. Keywords Diagram interpretation, automatic grading, entity-relationship diagrams, patterns, teaching tool.
Pete G. Thomas, Kevin G. Waugh, Neil Smith