9455403 Shaffer The GeoSim Interface Library (GIL) provides a common set of Graphical User Interface functions for programs running under the MS-DOS,Macintosh and X Windows programming environments. Application program software is written to access GIL. In this way, programs need only be written once to run under these three programming environments. GIL handles most typical GUI tasks, such as window display; backing store management for overlapping windows; mouse interaction with buttons, drag regions, lists and sliders. GIL supports help screens and alert boxes. GIL also includes additional support for non-typical applications development features such as log files, data file processing, and time-driven functions independent of user interface objects and actions (used for discrete event simulations). Existing GUI development systems do not provide the multi-platform capability necessary for our diverse student population. Fortunately, GIL has proven to be easy to use by students and researchers alike, and can easily be adapted to class use. This proposal seeks to obtain the modest manpower resources necessary to make GIL a tool that can be used by undergraduates in introductory programming courses. GIL provides a GUI library for use in writing class programming assignments. Use of a GUI in introductory programming classes allows students to begin early practice in writing applications programs more like what they will do in their jobs. Enhancements to the GIL system include a Graphical Interface Developer that allows students to interactively place user interface elements on the screen, better support for fonts and window backing store, and classroom ready documentation and examples. GIL, including source code and documentation, will be freely distributed via tabsInternet.
