(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2020-10-24)
Dasari, Sandeep; Freeman, Jason
Genetic algorithms are extensively used to understand, simulate, and create works of art and music. In this paper, a similar approach is taken to apply basic evolutionary algorithms to perform music live using code. Often considered an improvisational or experimental performance, live coding music comes with its own set of challenges. Genetic algorithms offer potential to address these long-standing challenges. Traditional evolutionary applications in music focused on novelty search to create new sounds, sequences of notes or chords, and effects. In contrast, this paper focuses on live performance to create directed evolving musical pieces. The paper also details some key design decisions, implementation, and usage of a novel genetic algorithm API created for a popular live coding language.
(Georgia Institute of Technology, 2020-01-21)
Wanzer, Dana Linnell; McKlin, Thomas (Tom); Freeman, Jason; Magerko, Brian; Lee, Taneisha
Background and Context: EarSketch was developed as a program to foster persistence in computer science with diverse student populations.
Objective: To test the effectiveness of EarSketch in promoting intentions to persist, particularly among female students and under-represented minority students.
Method: Meta-analyses, structural equation modeling, multi-level modeling, and qualitative analyses were performed to examine how participation in EarSketch and other factors affect students’ intentions to persist in computing.
Findings: Students significantly increased their intentions to persist in computing, g=.40[.25,54], but examination within just the five quasi-experimental studies did not result in a significant difference for students in EarSketch compared to students not in EarSketch, g=.08[-.07, .23]. Student attitudes towards computing and the perceived authenticity of the EarSketch environment significantly predicted intentions to persist in computing.
Implications: Participation in computer science education can increase students’ intentions to persist in programming, and EarSketch is one such program that can aid in these intentions.