Proof Blocks
Seth Poulsen, Mahesh Viswanathan, Geoffrey Herman, Matthew West
Abstract
In this software tool paper we present Proof Blocks, a tool which enables students to construct mathematical proofs by dragging and dropping prewritten proof lines into the correct order. We present both implementation details of the tool, as well as a rich reflection on our experiences using the tool in courses with hundreds of students. Proof Blocks problems can be graded completely automatically, enabling students to receive rapid feedback. When writing a problem, the instructor specifies the dependency graph of the lines of the proof, so that any correct arrangement of the lines can receive full credit. This innovation can improve assessment tools by increasing the types of questions we can ask students about proofs, and can give greater access to proof knowledge by increasing the amount that students can learn on their own with the help of a computer.