Program

Title: Workshop: Using Evaluation to Support Findings for Innovations in Engineering Education

Author(s): Froyd, Jeffrey E (1); Lord, Susan M (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Texas A&M University, United States of America; 2: University of San Diego, United States of America

Presenter(s): Froyd, Jeffrey E

Abstract: The IEEE Transactions on Education will be the definitive source of scholarship for education in electrical engineering, computer engineering, software engineering, computer science, and other fields within the scope of interest to the IEEE. New review criteria have been implemented to communicate expectations for authors seeking to publish their work in the Transactions. Many of the manuscripts submitted to the Transactions are submitted in the area of the Scholarship of Application. Therefore, the workshop will focus on this area. Based on reviews of manuscripts submitted to the Transactions for the Scholarship of Application, authors could benefit from support to address the criterion entitled “Findings”. The intent of this workshop is to offer methodologies and tools to help authors develop and implement evaluation plans to support their work on innovations in engineering education.

Title: Learn to Design Real Systems Fast with National Instruments myRIO Workshop

Author(s): Unan, Ozlem

Organisation(s): National Instruments, Turkey

Presenter(s): Unan, Ozlem

Abstract: Find out more about the new NI myRIO device, during this interactive seminar for educators and graduate students in the fields of controls, mechatronics, robotics, and embedded systems. Physically set up an NI myRIO, write an embedded program with NI LabVIEW software, and visualize the results. The NI myRIO is an embedded hardware device designed specifically to help students design real, complex engineering systems more quickly and affordably than ever before. NI myRIO places dual-core ARM® Cortex™-A9 real-time processing and Xilinx FPGA customizable I/O into your hands. With its onboard devices, seamless software experience, and library of courseware and tutorials, NI myRIO provides an affordable tool that students can use to do real engineering in one semester Participation: National Instruments will provide the myRIO boards and PCs needed for the workshop. They will be able to serve up to 20 people.

Title: MATLAB® & Simulink® with Raspberry Pi® - A hands-on workshop on hardware support for project based learning

Author(s): Tarchini, Alex

Organisation(s): The Matworks, Inc., United States of America

Presenter(s): Tarchini, Alex

Abstract: The workshop describes the built-in support for prototyping, testing, and running Simulink models on Raspberry Pi®. This platform aims to address the growing need for hands-on and project-based learning via a low-cost, easy to use hardware and software environment that builds on the widely used MATLAB & Simulink. The Simulink built-in support for hardware enables students to access the hardware capabilities of the popular credit-card sized, ARM11 based Raspberry Pi® computer, from within Simulink environment, and deploy for embedded implementation. Faculty who attend will have a chance to work through lab modules with examples of video and image processing algorithms, from very simple video in/out handling to a more sophisticated processing such as object recognition and edge detection. They will have an opportunity to gain practical hands-on experience in building such high-level examples themselves, and by extension understand the potential for use in the classroom with undergraduate students.

Title: Remote Experiment in Inquiry-Based Instruction

Author(s): Dziabenko, Olga (1); Garsía-Zubía, Javier (1); Gillet, Denis (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Deusto, Bilbao, Spain; 2: EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland

Presenter(s): Dziabenko, Olga

Abstract: The purpose of the workshop is presenting remote and virtual experiments in student-centered and teacher-guided instructional approach - Inquiry-Based instruction. During workshop the participants will gain basic knowledge about Inquiry-Based instruction; the key components of the inquiry process will be discussed. The example - how use remote and virtual laboratory in the inquiry cycle - will be presented. In order to avoid 70% prevalent conversation by the workshop organizers, the practical part will be organized. Through the workshop activity the participants will get opportunity to complement their traditional instruction for remote or virtual experiment with the Inquiry-Based Instruction.

Title: The Massive Course Meets the Personal Learner

Author(s): Downes, Stephen

Organisation(s): National Research Council of Canada, Canada

Presenter(s): Downes, Stephen

Abstract: The last few years have seen a great deal of interest in the Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) as educational institutions have made their learning materials available to students worldwide. But as it is well-known that education requires more than access to content, it is clear that another dimension is required, which can be described as 'personal learning'. This concept is the basis of the 'personal learning environment' (PLE), an idea that was popular just before MOOCs, and an idea which meets this demand for the educational experience, a form of interaction and immersion into a learning community. In this talk Stephen Downes will discuss the concept of personal learning as it relates to MOOCs and describe the framework of a program being launched by Canada's National Research Council, the 'Learning and Performance Support System', which integrates the personal learning experience with educational resources, a personal portfolio and learning record, a personal learning assistant, and automated competency development and recognition.

Title: Re-conceptualizing Teaching and Learning in a New Educational Context

Author(s): DeBoer, Jennifer

Organisation(s): Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA

Presenter(s): DeBoer, Jennifer

Abstract: The platforms that facilitate Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) gather large quantities of data on a large and varied group of students. Student use of course content is asynchronous and unconstrained, and the kinds of data MOOC platforms collect are also new and diverse. The new educational context offered in MOOCs requires that we reconceptualize what we consider a classroom. This presentation highlights the ways in which conventional constructs such as "enrollment" and "achievement" must be rethought and redefined in order to be appropriate and useful in the MOOC space. Drawing from rich and detailed data in the first MOOC course offered by MIT, this presentation illustrates the complexities of analysis in the MOOC "classroom" and shows new approaches to describing and understanding user behavior in this emerging educational context.

Title: Structure of face-to-face teaching sessions for an undergraduate technology-centered computing course: establishing a set of best practices

Author(s): Baumgartner, Ilse; Venky Shankararaman, Venky

Organisation(s): Singapore Management University, Singapore

Presenter(s): Venky Shankararaman, Venky

Abstract: To support its attempts in breaking down the traditional silo-based working style, the industry is increasingly looking for technically skilled, but also “business-savvy” IT professionals who are capable of designing, delivering and supporting a highly integrative and collaborative information systems environment in an organisation. This demand puts enormous pressure on higher education institutions. To meet this industry demand, more and more computing education programs strive to incorporate enterprise-level information systems into their curricula. However, these attempts frequently lead to numerous challenges. One of the most basic challenges experienced by the educators attempting to use an enterprise-level system in a computing course is the never-ending quest for the “right” structure of the (weekly) face-to-face teaching sessions of those courses. What is the “right” proportion of laboratory components in such a course? How long should a lecture part be? Do we need a lecture at all? Is there any need for in-class exercises which are rather theoretical in nature? What is the right amount of project-based work in such a course – and do we have to spend any class time on final projects? Is there any need for theory-testing activities such as quizzes? And – finally – how much work should be done individually and how much work needs to be done in groups? While there is a considerable computing education research available which investigates the current industry demands for this new type of IT-business professional and which offers an in-depth analysis on general implications of this increasing demand for higher education, only very few research works or practice papers exist which report on concrete attempts to design and deliver higher education courses which make an intensive use of enterprise-level information systems in their course curricula. Moreover, attempts to build a set of best practices in structuring the weekly face-to-face teaching sessions in such technology-intensive computing education courses are almost non-existent. In this conference contribution, the authors report on a series of experiences made within the Bachelor of Science (Information Systems Management) degree program offered by the School of Information Systems (SIS) at the Singapore Management University (SMU). The focus of this paper is put on describing the challenges related to establishing an effective and stable structure of the face-to-face weekly teaching sessions for courses which use enterprise-level systems and applications in their curricula. Using several courses of the program as examples, the authors of the paper show how a series of decisions were made (and subsequently revised) when designing and delivering the courses. Finally, the authors will present a set of best practices in structuring the weekly face-to-face teaching sessions for technology-heavy undergraduate computing courses. The paper will conclude with a series of recommendations which might be of interest to any university educator who is currently using or considers using enterprise-level systems in the undergraduate course curricula.

Title: Comparison of Frontal Lecture and Workshop Learning Arrangements in a Software Engineering Education Project

Author(s): Mottok, Juergen; Schumm, Michael; Soska, Alexander; Joseph, Saskia; Reschke, Michael; Schroll-Decker, Irmgard; Niemetz, Michael

Organisation(s): Technical University Regensburg, Germany

Presenter(s): Schumm, Michael

Abstract: The increased complexity of software and its creation over the last decades requires an increase in the quality of the education of software engineering professionals. The number of Universities which answer this call by replacing or extending lectures with simulated software projects is constantly rising. However, the question how to best transfer new technological knowledge needed to be successful within this projects to the students remains open. Therefore this paper will present a comparison between the classical frontal lecture and a modern workshop learning arrangement used within these projects. By the use of workshops not only the knowledge transfer but also the acquisition of personnel and social competences will be facilitated. Furthermore positive experiences with workshops at university level will support life-long learning.

Title: Different types of teamwork projects in learning Multimedia technologies

Author(s): Mihova, Marija; Jovanov, Mile; Stankov, Emil

Organisation(s): Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of

Presenter(s): Jovanov, Mile

Abstract: Cooperative learning and learning via projects allow the process of learning to be active, personally relevant and meaningful. In this paper we analyse the benefits from learning multimedia technologies through creating multimedia teamwork projects. We present our six-year long experience with different types of projects made by students on the course. Moreover, we elaborate the results obtained during this time period and we analyse the impact and importance of this method of learning as well as the students’ interest when using such an approach.

Title: Engineering practice: teaching ill-structured problem solving in an internship-like course

Author(s): Bozic, Marija (1); Cizmic, Svetlana (2); Sumarac-Pavlovic, Dragana (3); Escalas Tramullas, M. Teresa (4)

Organisation(s): 1: Telekom Srbija, Serbia; Interuniversity PhD Programme, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain; 2: Department of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Serbia; 3: Department of Telecommunications, School of Electrical Engineering, University of Belgrade, Serbia; 4: Department of Didactics of Mathematics&Experimental Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Spain

Presenter(s): Bozic, Marija

Abstract: Engineering is about dealing with open-ended and ill-structured problems. During their studies, engineering students are expected to dominate well-defined problem solving but they should be faced with ill-structured problems as well in order to prepare for the workplace. However, most of the students following the conventional engineering curriculum get their first opportunity to face ill-structured engineering problem solving during their internship, and if that is not viable students have no other option but to leave university without having dealt with this kind of problems. Our ongoing research has the general objective to identify teaching strategies that would best support students in solving workplace problems thus preparing them to step directly into the work environment after graduating from the conventional engineering curricula. In order to address the above issues we designed, implemented and are evaluating the workplace simulation course for final year engineering students in telecommunications and ICT. In order to reflect the work environment as closely as possible, the course is problem-based and project-organized with underlying constructivist principles and inspired in experiential learning theory, using role play that simulates the work environment. The course and the project are organized in such a way to resemble the real-world situations that are found in small and medium enterprises (SME) where an engineer is often required to combine the roles of a system designer and project manager in different phases of the product or service development. Our objective in this phase of the research was to identify issues and challenges of the learning experiences, and students’ motivation to attend the course. Understanding the issues and challenges during ill-structured problem solving and the pedagogical strategies to deal with them is crucial to producing effective instructional designs for teaching and learning in the context of preparing students for the workplace. In this article we describe the experience over four 10-week courses conducted for the final year engineering students. Our study adopted an action research strategy, using mixed qualitative and quantitative research methods for data collection. We conducted our research over four 10-week courses. The participants in the study were 52 students of the fourth (final) year of the academic studies. The following key issues and challenges that students experienced during the workplace problem solving were identified: defining the ill-structured problem; learning to ask questions; connecting theory and practice; self-guided study and information gathering; facing the reality through site survey; dealing with ambiguity; dealing with constraints and trade-offs; learning to communicate clearly; dealing with failure. We are confident that the overall findings of this study can contribute to the on-going research in the field of ill-structured problem solving. The research could inform the practice through the application in instructional designs aimed at the development of professional practice. Students’ perception confirms that this learning experience is important for their professional and personal development. Improvement of the course for the future requires a closer connection with the real company environment and follow-up of the participants.

Title: Lightweight Ad Hoc Assessment of Practical Programming Skills at Scale

Author(s): Staubitz, Thomas; Jan, Renz; Christian, Willems; Jasper, Johannes; Meinel, Christoph

Organisation(s): Hasso Plattner Institute (HPI), Germany

Presenter(s): Staubitz, Thomas

Abstract: There is a great demand for hands-on training in engineering education. In the context of a MOOC, assessing these experiments manually by teaching assistants is not possible owed to the high number of participants and the resulting workload. This work presents a lightweight solution for the assessment of practical programming exercises, based on third party online tools. The solution was introduced as a part of openHPI’s “Web-Technologies” course. The basic idea is to prepare a task in an available online tool, along with a piece of code that is able to evaluate the participant’s solution. In case of success the participant is provided with a code word, which in return serves as the answer for a standard fill-in-the-gap question in the MOOC’s quiz.

Title: Self-Assessment of Freshmen Students’ Base Competencies

Author(s): Zehetmeier, Daniela (2); Kuhrmann, Marco (2); Böttcher, Axel (1); Schlierkamp, Kathrin (1); Thurner, Veronika (1)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Applied Sciences Munich, Germany; 2: Technical University of Munich

Presenter(s): Zehetmeier, Daniela

Abstract: Not all incoming students are sufficiently well endowed with those base competencies (such as self organization, analytical thinking or communication skills) that are prerequisite for acquiring complex new knowledge as well as coping with the study process itself. As lecturers, we have to be aware of our incoming students' base competency profile, in order to pick them up where they are and help them develop whatever they need to study successfully. To gain insight into our students' initial skills in these areas, we developed a self-assessment focusing on selected self, practical and cognitive as well as social competencies that are cruicial for studying computer science or related topics.

Title: Scalable and Elastic e-Assessment Cloud Solution

Author(s): Ristov, Sasko (1); Velkoski, Goran (2); Gusev, Marjan (1); Armenski, Goce (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of; 2: Innovation, Skopje, Macedonia

Presenter(s): Ristov, Sasko

Abstract: This paper describes the development of a scalable and elastic e-Assessment solution deployed on the OpenStack open source cloud. The solution activates virtual machine instances with a particular size for each assessment according to the number of students that should be assessed, in order to achieve sustainable performance. The system architecture and organization of this solution has been recently published [1]. We have improved this design by introducing two new agents: the Assessment Generation Agent and Assessment Commit Agent. These modules improve the solution by enabling strategies in the test generation process and preventing situations when the test results are not updated correctly. The developed solution has also enabled several new features, such as introducing complex questions with several learning objectives, better presentation of results, and developed a new method to eliminate guessing in multiple choice questions as an advantage in the defined negative marking schema. We also discuss several new challenges that occur within the cloud deployment, including reference to delivery of open courses to massive number of students.

Title: A web platform for the assessment of competences in Mobile Learning contexts

Author(s): Rayon, Alex; Guenaga, Mariluz; Núñez, Asier

Organisation(s): University of Deusto, Spain

Presenter(s): Rayon, Alex

Abstract: Society demands new competences from professionals, who require having specific skills and abilities. Accordingly, universities have increasingly emphasized skills as central elements to students’ development, changing towards a competence-based model. However, the assessment of generic skills is a difficult task; on the one hand due to its subjective nature, and, on the other one, because of the difficulties to make it a scalable task. The more students there are the more difficult it becomes to scale competence assessment; and it will become even more difficult with the appearance of MOOCs or other distance learning models. So, accordingly, the main objective of this paper is to focus on Mobile Learning contexts and the assessment of competences, using data coming from students using Knowledge and Learning Technologies (what we call KLT) in those flexible and varied learning environments. Based on the limitations encountered in existing tools to provide insights in students’ interaction with technology and the contents supported over it, we propose to create a new web platform for the assessment of competences at higher education in Mobile Learning Contexts called ECLUD (Evaluación de Competencias en Línea de la Universidad de Deusto). It includes a set of web services that will allow gathering and exploiting data from the interaction students have with selected KLT; m-learning tools that support activities for the assessment of generic competences. Based on what has been explained so far, this paper explains, firstly, the metamodel showing those mobile teaching-learning contexts with the support of KLT and, secondly, the results of an experiment to validate the model and its implementation over the named web platform monitoring a sample of those mobile learning contexts at our University of Deusto in the assessment of generic competences throughout KLT at mobile devices. The information gathered will help teachers to improve the effectiveness of the assessment process, as well as to ascertain the methods and strategies that should be incorporated in future courses to improve learning effectiveness. All these data that will teachers have for consultation, is an important contribution for Technology Enhanced Learning, since we not only integrate data from different sources (LMS, Google Apps, Wikis, etc.), but also transform it to XML as an arbitrary data structure to load, represent and visualize it later as text or graphics. To reach these goals we are implementing ECLUD over Pentaho, a Business Analytics tool for ETL tasks (Extract, Transform, and Load), gathering data from databases of a set of KLT that will match indicators of generic competences, and generating advance text and graphic reports for teachers and students. This platform will allow the aforementioned scalability, enabling the processing of more and larger sources. We will also maintain anonymity and confidentiality of all students’ data accomplishing Spanish and European laws regarding to citizens’ privacity.

Title: Adapting Teaching Strategies to Global and Analytic Learning Styles by Real World Engineering Projects

Author(s): Daneti, Marllene

Organisation(s): Politehnica University of Timisoara, Romania

Presenter(s): Daneti, Marllene

Abstract: This paper investigates the way by which teaching strategies at the freshmen level in electrical engineering could be adapted, given the fact that the dynamic of the target group evolves fast and it’s characteristics differ considerably from the classic typology. Approaching the target-group, taken into account their global or analytic learning style, could contribute to this goal. A comparative study of some real world engineering projects from the literature is conducted. It is observed that by using subjects from the real world, a better adaptation of the whole range of teaching strategies to the given human resource is attained, which in turns facilitates achievement of the key skills at all levels.

Title: Research Workshop in Engineering Education -- Draft of new learning

Author(s): Jungmann, Thorsten; Ossenberg, Philipp

Organisation(s): Technische Universität Dortmund, Germany

Presenter(s): Ossenberg, Philipp

Abstract: At the beginning of their studies, Frist-year students learn basics in mathematics, physics and chemistry disintegrated from each other. Graduated engineers should be problem solvers and scientists, which demands for abilities that students can hardly learn in lectures. Recognizing the need of a learning format that covers these demands we developed a research workshop for students in engineering science based on previous work of Wildt, Schneider and Jungmann. By designing this new format we implement research-based learning into engineering courses by synchronizing the students’ learning process with a typical research process.

Title: Competence Component of the Project-Oriented Training of Elite Engineering Specialists

Author(s): Mozgaleva, Polina; Zamyatina, Oxana

Organisation(s): Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Mozgaleva, Polina

Abstract: The article presents a brief comparative analysis of elite engineering specialist training programs in Russian and foreign universities. Their peculiarities and priorities in forming competencies of future engineering leaders are identified. Special attention is paid to the competence component of the organizational and pedagogical model of project-oriented training of elite engineering specialists in Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU).

Title: Gaining and Maintaining Student Attention Through Competitive Activities in Cooperative Learning, A well-received experience in an undergraduate introductory Artificial Intelligence course

Author(s): Silapachote, Piyanuch; Srisuphab, Ananta

Organisation(s): Mahidol University, Thailand

Presenter(s): Silapachote, Piyanuch

Abstract: Digital-age undergraduate students exhibit a very short attention span, which is rapidly diminishing even further, posing a critical concern to today’s academic community. This presents an immediate need for a non-traditional teaching and learning approach that is well-adapted to their diverse modern life-style. Instead of lectures only, interactive in-class activities do attract some attention, but do not guarantee to retain this focus. Maintaining students’ attention, keeping them concentrated while they are studying, is no less of a crucial dilemma. It is therefore the focus of this research. Working in small groups is engaging and fun but students may easily move off-topic when a task is slightly complex or demanding. To overcome this, we are incorporating challenging elements, featuring built-in competitiveness into every cooperative activity and exercise we organize in our classroom, an introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI). Exploiting the strong competitive nature of college students allows us to securely capture their full attention. Our students continue enjoying the activities, collectively focusing their efforts on given tasks, and undertaking assigned projects. As a consequence, and often without realizing it, they are learning new concepts first-hand with real examples. To evaluate the effectiveness of our methodology, students completed a questionnaire with targeted questions. Their feedback provides a strong positive validation of the approach taken.

Title: Designing Proficient Academic Science Education for the Gifted Youth

Author(s): Pyetan, Erez; Oni-Grinberg, Adar; Nevo, Uri; Shofty, Shira; Yankielowicz, Shimon

Organisation(s): Tel Aviv University, Israel

Presenter(s): Pyetan, Erez

Abstract: How does one educate a talented kid into being a proficient scientist and a passionate researcher? The public education system encounters severe problems in dealing with exceptionally bright children, and their potential is often neglected or missed. Several programs tackle the problem both privately and publically, offering extra-curriculum courses that focus on the increase of knowledge and enhancement of technique. Our objective is to create an educational platform for the nourishment and development of future scientists and inventors, which goes beyond mere enrichment for leisure, and offers a purpose and a goal for the bored gifted youth. This program is designed to encourage and excite the highly capable and intelligent youth with scientific orientation, whose potential is not confronted with sufficient challenge at school, and is consequently bored and unmotivated. The need to fortify and expand the scientific and innovative community has led to a national initiative for the promotion of future scientists and inventors. Recognizing it as a goal of high priority for the benefit of society at large, laid the foundations for a national project which draws leading delegates of Israel's academic community, educational professionals and top rank of entrepreneurs, policy makers and industrial leaders. The Dov Lautman Youth Educational Unit at Tel Aviv University (TAU) was the first one to rise up to the challenge, and the first pilot program was launched at Tel Aviv University in July 2009.

Title: Improving the Computing Program Accreditation at Post Soviet Union University

Author(s): Sachenko, Anatoly (1,2); Andrzej Rucinski, Andrzej (2); LaCourse, John (2); Markowsky, George (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Ternopil National Economic University, Ukraine; 2: University of New Hampshire,USA; 3: University of Maine, USA

Presenter(s): Sachenko, Anatoly

Abstract: With growing competition for engineers who have a broad understanding of global enterprise, academics, business executives, and government officials are demanding a certification program for all countries producing engineers assuring competency. To promote this need, the authors used: the Post-Soviet Union universities as an example where students are rated lower as compared to American and European universities, computer curricula as a dynamically developing area, and the American Board for Engineering and Technology which has been accepted by many countries as the certification tool of choice. It is known that the approaches to accreditation for ABET and the PSU University are different whereby the PSU University such as in the Ukraine the end-point outcomes must meet the state standards; however, ABET assures that university program meets the quality standards established by the profession and in our case study, Computing programs must meet the quality standards set by the computing profession. The accreditation process is similar by using the same tools such a setting standards, internal self-evaluation, independent evaluation, on-campus meetings, a written report, and an final evaluation by a Commission members. However, curricula structuring of different universities from different countries must be conducted to provide compatibility, especially for students transfer. Therefore, a goal of this study is the concept development for computing program accreditation at a PSU University using ontology tools and the ABET experience. Four objectives were proposed: 1) a case study between the University of New Hampshire, the University of Maine, and Ukrainian universities; 2) analyze the ABET accreditation system for the CS/CE programs with the intent to adapt it for the PSU university; 3) develop ontology tools for modeling the topic content across the computing disciplines; 4) outline reforms for ABET accreditation preparation at the PSU university and implement at PSU universities novel methods and techniques used at UNH and UMaine. Finally, we recommend the following: concentrate on the internal evaluation and the completion of the self-study questionnaires using ontology tools whereby the computing body of knowledge into subsets of disciplinary subfields, then into thematic modules, then into topics, and finally into the lowest level of hierarchy. Within the ontology design conceptualization and formalization were key stages. We further recommend using semantic nets and frames for descriptions of declarative knowledge as well as procedural and format-logical models for representation of knowledge. The model for computing curricula reform is a necessity condition for the Computing Program at the PSU University due to the following factors: American students have fewer courses per semester and spend less time in class and on home work than Ukrainian students; the existing Ukrainian computing curricula does not fit the American computer curricula and ABET; there is a substantial difference in the mechanism of optional discipline selection. Finally, we recommend considering “computer based prosperity” by including the following TQM. It is our hope that the outcomes of this work will have a direct impact on the system of higher education in the Ukraine by producing highly-skilled graduates in computing according to international standards and criteria.

Title: Use of cutting edge educational tools for an initial programming course

Author(s): Giordano, Daniela; Maiorana, Francesco

Organisation(s): University of Catania, Italy

Presenter(s): Maiorana, Francesco

Abstract: The importance of education in all fields and the necessity to attract the younger to the field of Computer Science is well known in literature. At the same time the difficulties of expanding the CS curriculum across a wider type of schools and the difficulties to teach 21st century skills emerge from important reports such as [1]. This work presents an educational approach based on the development of fundamental transversal and computer science skills such as both a creative and computational thinking as well as problem solving and critical thinking. The approach is based on cutting edge educational tools, such as: Scratch, AppInventor, BYOB first and the well-known C language, secondly; curriculum materials, such as: CSPrinciples pilot courses, CS unplugged, school level preparation materials for the International Olympiad in Informatics, self-prepared materials, and by a blending of pedagogical approaches, such as: constructionist learning theory, experimental learning, a guided inquiring approach and student self-direction, and presents a year-long teaching experience in a 10th/13th grade school with 14-16 year old high school students. An initial analysis of the course results, both qualitative and quantitative, is presented and discussed with encouraging results showing how visual programming language helps students in improving their problems solving skills and reasoning practices and deserve further insight.

Title: What Surveys and Interviews tell us

Author(s): Watterson, Craig Alan; Carnegie, Dale Anthony

Organisation(s): Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

Presenter(s): Watterson, Craig Alan

Abstract: Since the first offering of our Bachelor of Engineering degree (BE) at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) in 2007 we have had consistently poor pass rates for first year students. At VUW we have collected survey information since 2010. While these surveys have provided excellent information they do not provide enough depth of information for us to fully understand the problems facing first year students. Since 2012 pastoral care interviews have greatly enhanced our understanding of the student experience. This paper discusses the information gained through the use of surveys and interviews and the role played by pastoral support within our engineering faculty.

Title: Supporting Students with Special Needs at University through Peer Mentoring

Author(s): Tobajas, Félix B.; Cabello, Mª Dolores; De Armas, Valentín; Grijalvo, Fernando

Organisation(s): University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain

Presenter(s): Tobajas, Félix B.

Abstract: The transition to university is a challenging time for many students. Academic demands are increasing, social norms are changing, and students are expected to be more independent. For students with special needs, as it is the case of students with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS), the transition to university and the adaptation to university life can be an even greater challenge. Asperger’s Syndrome is part of a range of related neurodevelopmental diagnoses, including Autistic Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD) and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), recently encompassed by the American Psychiatric Association in a single condition referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), with different levels of symptom severity [1]. ASD is mainly characterized by difficulties with social communication and interaction, and restricted repetitive behaviors, interests, and activities. In this sense, the style of learning many higher education establishments adopt can be awkward for students with AS, particularly when they are entering into engineering. Most engineering degree courses require students to use and develop communication skills, whether by giving presentations, working in groups or undertaking work placements. Students are also expected to communicate appropriately with a broad range of people, including academic staff, support staff and their peers. Asperger’s Syndrome may affect the way the students prepare for entry into university, orientate themselves around the campus, manage lectures, organizes their workload, know how to make sense of the academic requirements and teaching styles, prepare for exams, and manage their living skills and the social aspects of university life [2]. This means that students with AS may need specific support with some aspects of learning and teaching at university. Without particular support programs in place students with special needs are at risk of falling through the cracks, and becoming increasingly marginalized at university. The Mentoring Program for Students with Special Needs of the Escuela de Ingeniería de Telecomunicación y Electrónica (MPSSN-EITE) at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Spain), is intended to establish a multifaceted mechanism based on peer mentoring provided by upper-class student Mentors to support students with AS and to encourage organizational skill development. MPSSN-EITE adapts a mentoring program that has been in existence at EITE from the academic year 2004-2005 to provide help, support, and resources to incoming first-year students [3], by integrating the supervision of a Disability Tutor and the Social Action Service (SAS) from the Vice-chancellorship for Students and Employability at ULPGC. To determine the effectiveness and success of the program over the long-term, a number of indicators have been evaluated after two years of existence, including the drop-out rate of student participants and the feedback from both students and Mentors regarding the strengths and weakness of the program. From the results obtained from program evaluation, MPSSN-EITE represents a valid proposal to develop a flexible and adaptive mentoring action focused on students with special needs at university by integrating actions of information, orientation and formative support, in a coordinated manner.

Title: Organization of a Lego-Robots Contest Offered to High School Kids by Engineering Students within a Project Based Learning Enviroment

Author(s): Rothe, Irene

Organisation(s): Applied University Bonn-Rhine-Sieg, Germany

Presenter(s): Rothe, Irene

Abstract: Collecting experiences in project-based learning environments is very important for students of almost all subjects. Especially, for engineering students who mostly work in teams later on. To offer students a project-based learning environment one is as a lecturer always in a need for projects which are motivating for the students, teach them a lot of important project experiences (engineering challenges as well as human interaction challenges) and are repeatable in some ways in the next term so that feedback can update and improve the structure of future projects. The department of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism of the Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Sciences (HBRS) in Germany provides a project-based learning environment in the so called “project weeks”. Three weeks of a semester are available to do some real-world projects besides the normal lectures [1]. In the last three summer terms since 2011 the organisation of a Lego-robots competition for High School kids was used as a real-world project for the project weeks at HBRS. From summer to summer the contests got more popular among the High School kids. Because the lecturer stayed the same, experiences collected by the students who organized the event could be worked in in the contest of next year. So, the whole event could improve from year to year. This project also got very popular among the engineering students (who choose their projects out of a pool of many projects) because the project included the execution of the contest itself after preparing every detail of it for three weeks. The article describes how the idea of organizing a robots contest for High School kids made its way to a student project, how the project was organized by the professor and what feedback was obtained at the end of the project. Organizing a robots contest for High School kids has project related elements in it as well as engineering and team development challenging ones. The preparations have to fit in three project weeks, at the end of the last week the contest will take place at the student’s university. The last of three contests took place in summer. The students had to find an overall motto of the contest, invent and prepare funny and interesting tasks for the robot parcour, handle money issues, organize the two days including a show at the beginning of the contest, meals, calculating the winner team and do the final award ceremony. Within this project students obtained the following learning goals: • Learn and apply project strategies and practices • Run quality assurance methods about failure possibilities and back-up-solutions • Learn about processes in general and about organizing events especially • Experience self-directed learning A contest example is described and detailed evaluations are provided. [1] M. Winzker, “Semester Structure with Time Slots for Self-Learning and Project-Based Learning", IEEE EDUCON Education Engineering, 2012.

Title: Seeking clues to promote the participation of women in electrical engineering studies

Author(s): Alejos, Ana Vazquez (1); Milagros, Maria Pilar (2); Falcone, Francisco (3); Martin, Antonio Lopez (3); Sánchez, Manuel García (1)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Vigo, Spain; 2: Koç University; 3: Universidad Pública de Navarra

Presenter(s): Milagros, Maria Pilar

Abstract: In this contribution we discuss the need to analyze the problem of the scarcity of women in electrical engineering studies. We describe an ongoing survey to investigate the factors of gender segregation in this race. It also intends to transfer to classroom measures that capture more women.

Title: Building a shared understanding of the skills and competences in order to respond to the current global technical challenges

Author(s): Friesel, Anna (1); Ward, Anthony (2); Mrozek, Zbigniew (3); Poboroniuc, Marian (4); Welzer, Tatjana (5)

Organisation(s): 1: Technical University of Denmark, Denmark; 2: University of York, Great Britain; 3: Cracow University of Technology, Poland; 4: 'Gheorghe Asachi' Technical University of Iasi, Romania; 5: University of Maribor, Slovenia

Presenter(s): Friesel, Anna

Abstract: A global team including the representatives from 45 European universities works with EU supported project to firstly explore and then provide models for ways in which Higher Education Institutions of Europe in the Electrical and Information Engineering disciplines can respond to current challenges. This paper describes the preliminary results of the project’s work packages WP3 (Global Challenges) and WP4 (Widening Participation and Student Support).

Title: Designing Robotic Avatars in Second Life - A Tool to Complement Robotics Education

Author(s): Buiu, Catalin; Gansari, Mihai

Organisation(s): Politehnica University of Bucharest, Romania

Presenter(s): Gansari, Mihai

Abstract: This paper presents some considerations on a new educational approach aimed at complementing the traditional robotics education. The main idea and contribution is to introduce students to Second Life (a free 3D social virtual world) and to the Linden Scripting Language (the Second Life programming language with a syntax similar to C) and then to ask them to design robotic avatars replicating low and medium complexity behaviors which they have previously seen or programmed for simulated or real robots. This approach brings flexibility in working time and a definite social dimension which add to the benefits of the traditional classroom education. Results from a survey conducted with students taking a Robotics and Virtual Reality course demonstrate the validity of this approach in stimulating the students' interest.

Title: Educational Robotics as Learning Tools within the Teaching and Learning Practice

Author(s): Eteokleous, Nikleia

Organisation(s): Frederick University

Presenter(s): Eteokleous, Nikleia

Abstract: The current study examines the integration of robotics as a learning tool (mindtool) in the teaching and learning process and its effectiveness in achieving specific learning objectives. Study’s sample was twenty-one, 2nd graders that attended eleven lessons, in October - November 2012. To achieve the above the educational robotics package Lego Mindstorms NXT was used. Case study methodology was employed and 3 data collection methods were used: reflective journals, classroom observations and an evaluation assignment. The students managed to easily build the robots and relatively easily program the robots. The study highlights robotics’ effectiveness as a tool to develop students’ knowledge and skills, and achieve specific learning objectives and its important role in developing student-centered environments.

Title: Exploiting the synergies between Software Engineering and Robotics: a project-based laboratory

Author(s): Brugali, Davide

Organisation(s): University of Bergamo, Italy

Presenter(s): Brugali, Davide

Abstract: This paper presents the structure and the content of a project-based laboratory in software engineering for autonomous robots. Even if the theory and practice of software development for robotic has been the subject of several editions of the Robotics course at the University of Bergamo, the presented laboratory has been offered for the first time during the 2013 academic year. A preliminary evaluation of the laboratory is discussed in the conclusions.

Title: Engaging Students With a Mobile Game-Based Learning System in University Education

Author(s): Bartel, Alexander; Hagel, Georg

Organisation(s): University of Applied Sciences Kempten, Germany

Presenter(s): Bartel, Alexander

Abstract: In this contribution we present a game-based learning concept which is based on mobile devices. It focuses a joyful stabilization of knowledge and the engagement of students using the Gamification approach and its game mechanics. Previous findings how to promote students’ motivation are adapted in the mobile context and discussed. Steps for the realization of the concept in a university are described.

Title: Using FPGA Development Boards for Multi-course Laboratory Support

Author(s): Haba, Cristian-Gyozo

Organisation(s): "Gheorghe Asachi" Technical University of Iasi, Romania

Presenter(s): Haba, Cristian-Gyozo

Abstract: The paper presents authors' work on extending the use of FPGA-based development boards as student lab equipment for several courses in the curricula of the Faculty of Electrical Engineering. We are witnessing today a rapid evolution of FPGAs evaluated not only in the number of equivalent logic gates but also in I/O pins, on-chip memory blocks, arithmetic units and processor cores. Taking advantage of these advanced features, we are examining the possibility to use FPGA-based development boards to support laboratory works that were traditionally based on microcontrollers, processors or other dedicated devices. The courses of Real-Time Programming, Digital Signal Processing or Robotics are example of such courses. Initial studies show that this approach results in a reduction of equipment costs and an improvement of student learning curve.

Title: The EOLES Project

Author(s): Gericota, Manuel (1); Fidalgo, Andre (1); Ferreira, Paulo (1); Barataud, Denis (2); Andrieu, Guillaume (2); De Craemmer, Renaat (3); Cristea, Mihai (4); Benachenhou, Abdelhalim (6); Ankrim, Mohammed (7); Bouchlaghem, Karim (5)

Organisation(s): 1: ISEP, Portugal; 2: University of Limoges, France; 3: Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium; 4: University Polytehnica of Bucharest, Romania; 5: University of Kairouan, Tunisia; 6: Abdelhamid Ibn Badis University, Algeria; 7: Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco

Presenter(s): Fidalgo, Andre

Abstract: The EOLES (Electronics and Optics e-Learning for Embedded Systems) project is a 3-year joint project involving 15 institutions, four from Europe and eleven from the North African countries of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia, whose aim is to create a 3rd year Bachelor degree in Electronics and Optics for Embedded Systems. The project started in October 2012 and is schedule to end in October 2015. One of the biggest challenges to a full implementation of an e-learning course in engineering is the laboratories. They are unanimously recognized as essentials in any engineering course. Contrary to the majority of engineering courses that force students to attend on-site hands-on labs sometime along the course, EOLES students will be able to perform their lab duties online. Indeed, the most innovative aspect of this project is precisely the implementation of a remote laboratory that will enable students to carry out remotely the practical works associated to each technical unit within the course.

Title: Student Satisfaction of e-Learning Tools for Computer Architecture and Organization Course

Author(s): Armenski, Goce; Kostoska, Magdalena; Ristov, Sasko; Gusev, Marjan

Organisation(s): Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of

Presenter(s): Ristov, Sasko

Abstract: In this paper, we present the results of a survey to analyze the student satisfaction of introducing online course and the simulators. Our goal was to evaluate the benefits and drawback for this type of course organization and to have anonymous and realistic feedback by the student themselves. Our main objective is to generate the best learning model suited to the students need and requirements.

Title: The users' evaluation of newly introduced on-line collaborative activity for building ontology

Author(s): Jovanov, Mile; Gusev, Marjan; Mihova, Marija

Organisation(s): Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of

Presenter(s): Jovanov, Mile

Abstract: In our previous work we have presented a new model of on-line collaborative activity for building ontology. It enriches the list of activities that can be included in the course curriculum, and also, at the end, produces ontology for the course domain. Furthermore, we have exposed a complete system that includes the collaborative building of ontology on the domain, as a part of a special course activity, and additionally, uses the produced ontology document as input into our automated system for production of questions for e-testing. Here, we will present the results of the students achieved in the real one-semester experiment conducted at the Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering in Skopje. The answers to the questionnaire given to the students at the end of the course give deeper insight on the whole activity and the results can be encouraging for many lecturers to use the proposed activity and the system as a whole.

Title: Customized work based learning support system for less academically prepared adults in online environment

Author(s): Jakobsone, Andra (1); Motejlek, Jiří (2); Cakula, Sarma (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Liepaja University, Latvia; 2: Technical University of Liberec, Czech Republic; 3: Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia

Presenter(s): Jakobsone, Andra

Abstract: In these dynamic times, when everything changes fast, being unprepared is not an excuse. Work-based learning is used as a tool to achieve the goal of converting tacit knowledge into explicit by maximizing learning opportunities and internalizing knowledge by practical experience in the workplace. Information and communication technology plays an important role in the knowledge management process, helping academically prepared adults learn and solve lots of different problems more effectively. In this regard, it is very important to figure out the principal directions for implementing work-based learning strategies in the learning process. The work with knowledge implies creation of content: generation of a new knowledge in order to stimulate the development of innovative processes. The goal of the paper is to get a new perspective on and understanding of the future of work-based learning involving the use of new technological opportunities. The research idea is to describe the principles of a system focusing on an online support system for adults, the influence of different conditions and the unique patterns of development in each individual. In order to find the most efficient application of ICT resources and knowledge management technologies with an aim to save time and use work-based learning to its utmost potential, it is necessary to study different theories, which will help us understand how information systems have to be created and structured to reach the set goals. The result of the research is the analysis of the information system as an online learning platform, improved quality of knowledge flow, and recommendations for developing work-based learning with regard to the encouragement of efficient knowledge management.

Title: Heterogeneous Ability-Centered Team Building to Aid Enquiry Based Learning in Engineering Classroom

Author(s): Shakir, Muhammad Zeeshan (1); Baig, Saira Dawer (1); Imran, Muhammad Ali (2); Hussain, Syed Imtiaz (1); Abbasi, Qammer Hussain (1); Qaraqe, Khalid A. (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Dept. of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar; 2: Centre for Communications Systems Research, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK

Presenter(s): Shakir, Muhammad Zeeshan

Abstract: Enquiry-based student-centered learning activities in engineering classrooms may lose its focus and success if the activities in classroom are biased due to the failure in forming mixed-ability oriented teams or groups of students. This paper proposes a technology driven team-building methodology to enhance enquiry-based learning in the conventional engineering classrooms, which is referred to as Heterogeneous Ability-Centered Team Building (H-ACT-B) method. The H-ACT-B method guarantees mixed-ability based team or group formation in classroom to promote effective communication, collaboration and critical thinking based on the programmed evaluation of individual student's aptitude. The proposed team building method is expected to aid the individual student and the team or group to ensure their progress toward achieving the common team task efficiently. Moreover, the study is strongly formulated by considering the useful insights about the current team building practices and methods by conducting survey among the engineering faculty and students.

Title: Handling Re-grading of Automatically Graded Assignments in MOOCs

Author(s): Renz, Jan; Staubitz, Thomas; Willems, Christian; Klement, Hauke; Meinel, Christoph

Organisation(s): HPI, Germany

Presenter(s): Renz, Jan

Abstract: openHPI is Germany’s largest MOOC platform, run by theHasso Plattner Institute (HPI) in Potsdam. It is specialized inICT Engineering education. During the last twelve months over60,000 people enrolled in one of the six offered courses, whichare lectured in English or German. Each course was enrolledby between 7,000 and 15,000 students. In total, 446,228 self-tests and 72,551 homework assignments have been submittedby the participants. For each quiz the teaching teams preparea reference solution, which is presented to the participantswhen the submission deadline has passed. After a short timeframe, discussions about grading begin oftentimes. If gradingis transparent and the community has the possibility to discussthe quiz results and the grades, a large number of submissionsis subject to re-grading decisions. It is impossible to handlethis amount of assessments on an individual submission-basedlevel. Instead, a computer-driven approach is required when itcomes to the handling of re-grading. In this paper we willdiscuss our approach to handle those discussions, classifydifferent options for re-gradings, describe the process of re-grading, and reflect on the experiences we have made fromsix courses held on openHPI so far.

Title: Intelligent Student Profiling for Predicting e-Assessment Outcomes

Author(s): Simjanoska, Monika; Gusev, Marjan; Ristov, Sasko; Bogdanova, Ana Madevska

Organisation(s): Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of

Presenter(s): Simjanoska, Monika

Abstract: The main objective of this paper is introducing intelligence in the e-Learning and e-Assessment processes. Therefore, we present an existing adaptive e-Learning and e-Assessment strategies, verify them with machine learning (ML) algorithms, build students Profile and eventually, we present our new model that will be able to estimate the final result of the overall students' work during the semester, taking into account all the learning objectives that the students have passed. Thus, our idea is creating an intelligent agent that will simulate the behavior of a real professor as much as possible.

Title: E-Assessment with Interactive Images

Author(s): Gusev, Marjan (1); Ristov, Sasko (1); Armenski, Goce (1); Gusev, Pano (2); Velkoski, Goran (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of; 2: Innovation, Skopje, Macedonia

Presenter(s): Ristov, Sasko

Abstract: Most of the realized e-Assessment systems include pictures in the realization of e-Testing, but the pictures are mainly used as supported media enhancement of the multiple choice questions. We introduce a brand new idea to use interactive images, where the user can navigate and zoom the picture and provide answers by clicking on appropriate graphical object, mark a region, annotate, set an answer/comment on a given position, etc. The application domain of this innovation is huge, including e-Assessment for those sciences, where image analysis is essential, such as analysis of medical images, gathering map selective user's opinion etc. We have developed three new question types based on interactive images that offer these innovations. The impact is not just in enhancement of offered technology, but also on preventing various cheating methods, such as memorizing, guessing, etc. These innovations can improve the assessment results, by a more correct evaluation and knowledge assessment.

Title: Standard Setting in Students Assessment of Higher Education Institution in Malaysia

Author(s): Khatimin, Nuraini (1); Abd Aziz, Azrilah (2); Zaharim, Azami (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia; 2: Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Presenter(s): Zaharim, Azami

Abstract: The standard setting methodologies have been summaries and reported by various researchers. There are two types of standard, which are relative and absolute. Relative standard is appropriate for examination while absolute standard are most appropriate for a test of competence. This method has been implemented in some organization and institution in countries outside Malaysia. There are many methods for standard setting such as Angoff, Nedelsky, Ebel, Bookmark and Objective Standard Setting but there is no perfect method to determine cut score on a test and none is agreed upon as the best method. Depends on their specific application, those methods have advantages and disadvantages. Some publications from some published articles on standard setting and the benefit of standard setting in educational assessment will be discussed in this paper. This study provides information and introduction of standard setting in students' assessment which can be implemented for education in Malaysian institutions of higher learning.

Title: Effecting Major Changes to a First Year University Engineering Programme

Author(s): Carnegie, Dale; Browne, Will

Organisation(s): Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

Presenter(s): Carnegie, Dale

Abstract: We established an engineering degree utilising existing science and mathematics courses where possible in order to minimise the resource requirements. After 7 years of running this degree, research indicated dissatisfaction by some students regarding the science, and in particular, mathematics component of the programme. We also uncovered numerous non-academic issues that contributed to student disengagement from the degree. This paper outlines the evolution of an engineering degree from its inception to its current form. This evolution is informed by student surveys, focus groups, interviews, and best practice. The result has been a significant change to the foundation engineering course, the creation of new engineering courses, the appointment of a pastoral support agent, the growing of a student engineering culture and the redevelopment and re-emphasising of first year mathematics.

Title: Integrating Practical CISCO CCNA Courses in the Computer Networks' Curriculum

Author(s): Ristov, Sasko; Gusev, Marjan; Donevski, Aleksandar

Organisation(s): Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of

Presenter(s): Ristov, Sasko

Abstract: Nowadays, both wired and wireless computer networks and data communications have significant importance. In addition, we are entering in the world of big data analysis, where a lot of data is transferred from the sources to given computing centers for further processing. This trend requires changes in the computer science' computer networking curriculum in order to prepare the students with market opportunities and challenges after graduating. The Computer Networks (and / or data communications) course, or the whole knowledge area of networking and communication in general, are supposed to be a core part of computer science and net centric computing. Using the fact that these students prefer to learn software oriented courses, the Universities have to make the course more interesting and sophisticated enough to follow today's trends. In this paper, we present a new adaptive curriculum for the Computer Networks course. The students are given an opportunity to choose between a practical oriented or theoretical oriented course. Our intention is to make the most of the learning objectives in the course more practical and thus initiate increased interest of the students. However, the core part of theoretical lectures about low level reliable data communication is obligatory for both approaches.

Title: Undergraduate Research Experience Program in Qatar

Author(s): Baig, Saira Dawer; Hussain, Syed Imtiaz; Qaraqe, Khalid A.

Organisation(s): Texas A & M University at Qatar, Qatar

Presenter(s): Baig, Saira Dawer

Abstract: This paper analyzes the performance of Undergraduate Research Experience Program (UREP), at Qatar. From inception in 2006, UREP is Qatar National Research Fund's (QNRF) longest running program. It comprises of two cycles per year. QNRF is a part of the research and development establishment at Qatar Foundation for science, education, and community development. QNRF's objective is to put Qatar in the forefront for research and development excellence and innovation, in the region and across the globe. This would in turn help develop a diversified economy and enhance education, technological innovation, conservation of natural resources, and creation of intellectual property. Their program at the undergraduate level, UREP, provides students with the opportunity to experience team-based or site-based research collaborations with faculty, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research staff and other undergraduates. UREP, now in its 15th cycle, not only improves the quality of education imparted but also provides additional benefit of facilitating faculty and commercial research, thereby leading to the creation of better research products and more interaction with the academic world. The exposure of the undergraduate students to the cutting edge technology and discovery-oriented environment also helps facilitate the introduction of graduate-school education. The grants provided under UREP render the recipients with the opportunity to conduct original research under faculty supervision. More than 2,200 students have taken part in this program to date. This program has played a vital role in developing a research culture amongst young people in Qatar. UREP has provided exceptional research experience to a large number of undergraduate students for the past seven years. In total, UREP has funded almost 700 projects for applied undergraduate research in the fields of engineering and technology, natural sciences, medical and health sciences, agricultural sciences, social sciences and the humanities, out of the 1700 proposals that have been submitted so far. Over 500 young women have participated in UREP till now. Previous UREP projects have been on a wide variety of themes such as improving air quality, methods for safer driving, the history of Qatar's cuisine, the removal of contaminants from petrochemical wastewater effluents produced by Qatar's oil and gas industry, analysis of female corporate leadership, techniques for screening gastrointestinal pathogens amongst expatriates working in Qatar, the extent and nature of emotional and behavioural disorders present amongst students in Qatar's independent schools and electricity consumption in residential and industrial areas in Qatar. Some other funded research topics include wireless sensors for corrosion detection of post-tension tendons in bridges, use of mobile application to enhance young Qatari health behaviour, food security, use of social media to assess Qatar as a brand, the development of solar cells and the use of nanotechnology in seawater desalination. In this paper we discuss the analysis of some of the projects funded by UREP and the overall performance of the program. For example, in the last cycle, 128 proposals were submitted to UREP out of which 42 received grants worth 1.5 million dollars. The research outcomes are reported in research magazines and journals of international repute.

Title: The Role of Industrial/Academia Liaisons in the Consecution of Integral Curricula in Engineering

Author(s): Falcone, Francisco (1); Alejos, Ana (2); Milagros, Maria PIlar (3); Sanchis, Pablo (1); Lopez-Martin, Antonio (1)

Organisation(s): 1: UPNA, Spain; 2: Universidad de Vigo, Spain; 3: Koc University

Presenter(s): Lopez-Martin, Antonio

Abstract: In this work, the established channels and the benefits of providing diverse Industry Liaisons with academia will be analyzed within the framework of developing Engineering curricula within several cases at Spanish University. There liaisons will mainly be established by professional contacts between academia and industry, as well as by the implementation of industry chairs, in which a formal framework is established. The results of such interaction is the effective establishment of close industry/academia relations and the achievement of an integral learning experience, enhancing technical as well as transverse competences. In order to gain insight in the approach followed by the Universidad Pública de Navarra and Universidad de Vigo, in Spain, a description of the established liaisons and their characteristics will be presented. The inter relation process and the impact on Engineering Curricula will be described for several Engineering programs in Telecommunication Engineering and Industrial Engineering Degrees. The activities in specific courses as well as in Final Degree, Masters Degree and PhD Degrees will also be described. Assessment in evolution of specific competences as well as of transverse competences will be provided by qualitative and quantitative results given by students, industry members and faculty members. The strengths as well as items which need improvement will be identified, as well as their causes. The proposed methodology and multiple feedback can serve as a consistent tool in order to achieve an integral learning experience, which develops beyond University and aids in lifelong learning itineraries for industry and enhanced research relations for academia.

Title: The Gamification of Dynamic Spectrum Access and Cognitive Radio

Author(s): Sutton, Paul; Doyle, Linda

Organisation(s): CTVR, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

Presenter(s): Sutton, Paul

Abstract: Gamification is the application of digital game design techniques to non-game problems. Gamification as a business practice has gained increasing interest in the past number of years. Organizations are applying it in areas such as marketing, human resources, productivity enhancement, sustainability, training, health and wellness, innovation, and customer engagement. The purpose of this paper is to present a game that has been designed to explain dynamic spectrum access and to expose some of the features of a cognitive radio. The game is entitled ‘Spectrum Wars’ and is designed for two teams who compete against each other to successfully transmit and receive data streams. The platform on which it has been developed is an open source platform that is also part of the educational experience. The game is intended for use by researchers who are new to the field as well as for use as a tool that helps explain complex concepts involved in the areas of dynamic spectrum access and cognitive radio to decision-makers (i.e. regulatory bodies /politicians). The paper will begin with a brief introduction to the field of dynamic spectrum access and cognitive radio to set the context. The purpose of the introduction will be to both explain the concepts involved as well as to highlight the complexities of the domain and the challenges in the field. These technologies can underpin more open access to spectrum (a vital resource for all wireless systems) but are often treated with caution by those who make decisions about future regulatory regimes which may or may not embrace the technologies. Hence bringing a clearer understanding of what is involved to researchers as well as decision-makers is essential. The paper will then go on to describe the Spectrum Wars game. This game uses an open source software radio system known as Iris and uses simple transceivers. The core components of the game will be described.Traditional radios use predefined frequencies. Cognitive radios on the other hand, seek out spectrum that is unused by others, use it temporarily and move on when either the licensee of the spectrum returns or when too much interference is experienced. The players of the game take the role of the cognitive radio decision-making engine. Users of the game begin to understand what dynamic spectrum access really means as they move around the spectrum to find empty frequencies. Diagrams of the system, screen grabs of it in action and performance statistics will be presented. The paper will subsequently provide an analysis of the user experience of the game. Its educational potential will be assessed. The response of the wider less technical audience will also be described. The work will be placed in context in other similar type initiatives. Overall the paper aims to show that the gamification of complex concepts in telecommunications can open up new ways of understanding through active engagement with the concept. In addition the open source nature of the platform involved makes it accessible for research and educational communities internationally

Title: To Develope the Mandarin-Phonetic-Symbol Communication Aid for Children with High-Functioning Autism

Author(s): Chu, Yung-Long (1); Chang, Shuping (2); Zhao, Yu-Xiang (3); Hsu, Feng-Chih (1); You, Jia-Sheng (1); Chou, Chien-Hsing (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Department of Electrical Engineering, Tamkang University, Taiwan; 2: Department of Multimedia Design, Chihlee Institute of Technology, Taiwan; 3: Department of Computer Science & Information Engineering, National Quemoy University, Taiwan

Presenter(s): Chou, Chien-Hsing

Abstract: In this study, a Mandarin-phonetic-symbol communication aid named as zhuyin communication board is developed for children with high-functioning autism. The zhuyin communication board can execute on Tablet PC to assists autistic children to express their thought to other people. When an autistic child wants to express his thought, he can press the corresponding phonetic symbols by using the developed zhuyin communication board. Compared with the traditional paper keyboard, the developed aid could show the typing phonetic symbol immediately on the screen, and provides the voice of zhuyin pronunciation to improve autistic children’s language perception skill. To motivate the interesting of autistic children, the developed app provides a picture-based testing for learning Mandarin phonetic symbols of variety objects, and a robot bear interacts with autistic children while they express his thought by using zhuyin communication board. Additionally, the software is free download in the iTune app store and the contents of software are displayed by Chinese; users of this aid are not required any cost and a specific level of English ability to use it.

Title: Cross-cultural Active Learning: Qualitative Results from Americans Teaching in China

Author(s): Lord, Susan M.; Wang, Jiajia; Chang, Victor W.; Kuang, Yinghui; Tang, Yongming

Organisation(s): University of San Diego, United States of America

Presenter(s): Lord, Susan M.

Abstract: What are the experiences of Chinese students taking engineering courses taught in English by American professors using active learning techniques? Case studies of three such courses are explored in this work. Specifically, two American professors taught courses in English to about 90 students whose native language was Chinese. These courses included a required Electronics course for electrical engineering sophomores, a seminar on Medical Device New Product Development within a required Biomedical Instrumentation course for juniors in biomedical engineering, and a lecture series on New Product Development for first year honors students. All courses included homework teams and active learning techniques in the classroom. Focus groups were conducted near the end of the courses to examine students’ experiences. Results and analyses of this qualitative data are presented in this work.

Title: SUPER - Sustainable Perception Index for Sustainable Development regarding gender and diversity aspects

Author(s): Krause-Steger, Sandra; Roski, Melanie

Organisation(s): Bochum University of Applied Sciences, Germany

Presenter(s): Krause-Steger, Sandra

Abstract: Sustainable Development is getting an increasing importance in different educational programs, due to the fact that on the one hand it is an interdisciplinary research and teaching field. On the other hand the complexity of Sustainable Development as a comprehensive approach, considering the ecological, economic and social dimension, makes new ways of creating educational programs etc. necessary. There is less knowledge about the perception of different topics of Sustainable Development amongst students. Therefore, at the Bochum University of Applied Sciences, a perception index is created concerning issues of Sustainable Development. The aim is to explore whether certain student groups have a close personal relation to issues of Sustainable Development and therefore can be gained as new target groups through educational offers. Methodology and Research Questions Core elements of the project SUPER Sustainable Perception Index will be comprehensive empirical surveys. The data will be used to obtain a detailed picture of the student body regarding the research topics. The results are analyzed under socio - demographic factors such as e.g. gender and diversity aspects. Personal relation in this context primarily means that students understand the meaning of Sustainable Development as a systemic approach. One hypothesis is that especially female students have a certain closeness to sustainable issues. This gender related affinity of women will be scientifically focused in this project (Nentwich et al. 2010, Schultz/Stieß 2009, p. 40 ff.). The research questions are: 1. Which aspects of sustainable development are known by the respondents? 2. Which cohorts are the drivers for issues of sustainable development due to their specific relation to the topics? 3. Do female students have a specific relation to sustainable development? 4. How can the results be picked up by the University and be considered didactically? For the perception index an online survey will be conducted to which all 7000 students will be invited. For analyzing the perception, we show three different levels of perceiving the sustainable issues. The first comprises a deeper understanding of the three dimensions of ecological, economic and social aspects. Secondly they can give answers concerning their attitude such as e.g. emotional reactions to issues. As a third step they are asked about their reactions and activities resulting from their knowledge and feelings. Thus, you get a detailed information of knowledge, feelings and actions in regard of issues of Sustainable Development which makes the survey tool very precious for transdisciplinary educational programs and further research. In addition, the Bochum University of Applied Sciences can be regarded as a model for Engineering Schools and gives a good example for implementing innovative and interdisciplinary issues and educational offers. The Institute for Education, Culture and Sustainable Development is specialized on developing self reflexive personalities (Küpers 2009). This also includes the chance to generate more female students for an Engineering School by addressing them with issues such as Sustainable Development. In the full paper, we will exclusively show the set of the survey and its impact for further research and transfer into educational offers especially for engineering students.

Title: Preventing Enginnering Education Dropouts: Measuring the Compatibility of Personality Type and Engineering Major

Author(s): Ktoridou, Despo; Epaminonda, Epaminondas

Organisation(s): University of Nicosia, Cyprus

Presenter(s): Ktoridou, Despo

Abstract: Research shows that almost half of the engineering students switch to other majors or drop out mainly due to three key reasons: teaching and advising insufficiency; complexity of engineering curriculum; and a lack of “belonging” within engineering [1]. The current study measures the compatibility between engineering undergraduate students’ personality types and their major of study in order to estimate the extent to which engineering students “belong” within engineering. An online questionnaire of Holland’s typology of personality was used to obtain scores on students’ personality types.

Title: The Effectiveness of the Junior Companies in the Vision of Engineering Students of a Brazilian University

Author(s): Maria Bogo, Adelaide (1); Christian Schmitt, Alan (1,2); Henning, Elisa (1,2); Gehlen de Marco, Rodrigo (1)

Organisation(s): 1: UDESC, Brazil; 2: Universidade de Aveiro

Presenter(s): Christian Schmitt, Alan

Abstract: This paper analyzes the effectiveness of the activities of Junior Companies (JCs) at the College of Technological Science - CCT at the Santa Catarina State University (UDESC) as projects that give students real-world experience with the goal of describing these experiences from their own point of view. The observations were carried out in two junior companies, where one is mainly characterized by preparing projects and providing services to the community, and the second is focused on the provision of services related to quality tools and industrial management. It is believed that the junior company is a supplement to the classroom and provides experience in technical projects and developing human behaviors. Understanding the experience of the students as members of a JC is effective, allowing the university to assess whether there is value for the academic formation of the professional profile of future engineers, as well as to demonstrate to the students the contribution to their academic training. The methodology adopted in this research is descriptive and quali-quantitative. A survey was carried out with current students and alumni to identify the contribution to their academic training. Exploratory analysis was used to find the results of the effectiveness of the contributions of JCs in the formation of the professional profile from the point of view of the students. The results show student satisfaction regarding acquired knowledge, networking, obtaining internship recommendations, participation and the best time of admission to the JCs.

Title: Engineering students and graduates on the labor market: FIM UHK case study

Author(s): Poulova, Petra; Simonova, Ivana

Organisation(s): University of Hradec Králové, Czech Republic

Presenter(s): Poulova, Petra

Abstract: University–industry collaboration and innovation are popular topics. The paper discusses a real example of co-operation. The described event is annually held at the Faculty of Informatics and Management (FIM), University of Hradec Králové and provides the FIM students and graduates with a higher chance to succeed on the labour market. In addition, the event participants expressed their opinions and experience in the questionnaire survey. The results are discussed in a wider context of job opportunities for university graduates in the Czech Republic.

Title: Developing Android client applications for online laboratories

Author(s): Deaky, Bogdan-Alexandru (1); Parv, Luminita (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Bluemind Software / Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania; 2: Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania

Presenter(s): Deaky, Bogdan-Alexandru

Abstract: This paper shares essential knowledge required for developing Android online laboratory client applications, identified through collaboration and obtained as conclusions of the own development work. Tips are included regarding data exchange formats, Graphical User Interface design approaches, video feed access and others. A "how to get started with Android" chapter is included as well, to ease the start of those who want to develop Android applications for education.

Title: A Robotic Arm Simulator Software Tool for use in Introductory Robotics Courses

Author(s): Gonzalez, Fernando Garcia; Zalewski, Janusz

Organisation(s): Florida Gulf Coast University, United States of America

Presenter(s): Zalewski, Janusz

Abstract: Abstract—With the rising popularity of robotics in our modern world there is an increase in engineering programs that do not have the resources to purchase expensive dedicated robots but find a need to offer a basic course in robotics. This common introductory robotics course generally covers the fundamental theory of robotics including robot kinematics, dynamics, differential movements, trajectory planning and basic computer vision algorithms commonly used in the field of robotics. The nature of this material almost necessitates the use of robotic hardware to allow the students to practice implementing the theory they learn in class. That is, to fully understand the material, it is necessary for the students to implement algorithms and observe the results on hardware. This paper introduces a software based educational tool designed to be used in introductory robotics courses. The software simulates the geometry of motion (kinematics) of a two link robotic arm and is used by students to implement algorithms based on the robot’s kinematic equations. This includes the use of inverse kinematic equations used to determine the joint inputs based on the desired location of the end-effector, as well as trajectory planning and the study of differential movements. It also include a robotic image processing tool that helps the student design robotic vision algorithms. This tool provides a low cost solution to situations where purchasing expensive robotic arms typically needed for this course is not possible, where the existing equipment does not allow for direct joint programming, or simply for on-line robotics courses.

Title: Software Engineering in a Nutshell for Electrical Engineers

Author(s): von Schwerin, Marianne

Organisation(s): University of Applied Sciences Ulm, Germany

Presenter(s): von Schwerin, Marianne

Abstract: Nearly all electrical engineers develop software or do at least a little programming in their everyday professional life. The curricula of Electrical Engineering Bachelor Programs usually include learning a programming language but often there is only little time for acquiring deeper software engineering skills in these programs. Therefore, in this contribution a concept for a compact course is introduced which includes the main topics of software engineering and focuses on the software development skills which are usually expected from an engineer. The course contains modeling using the UML, deployment of design patterns, code generation especially for embedded systems and using model driven architecture principles. This basic knowledge is applied to a programming project in robotics. Starting with a Lego NXT robot from which all lego software is removed, the ARM 7 processor is addressed directly by the developed software. Starting from a platform independent model, the students design the system in UML using an appropriate tool. The transformation model and the platform model are provided so that the executable system can be generated. Profiles for real-time systems may be included in order to consider the real time requirements. The project should be embedded in a particular process e.g. a simple V-model so that the students get used to realizing software projects in a process framework. The realization of the course including the lab is possible in e.g. 12 weeks with 4 teaching hours per week.

Title: A New Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulator for Control Engineering Education

Author(s): Usenmez, Serdar; Yaman, Ulas; Dolen, Melik; Koku, A. Bugra

Organisation(s): Middle East Technical University, Turkey

Presenter(s): Yaman, Ulas

Abstract: As a part of a “lab-at-home” education paradigm for control engineering courses, this paper proposes (and elaborates) a novel hardware-in-the-loop simulator with 3D animation capabilities. The developed software, which can be tailored to simulate any dynamic systems in non-real-time, is designed to work in conjunction with a control hardware. In the paper, the specific application of the software to a graduate-level course is presented within the framework of a final term project involving the control of a satellite tracking antenna. The success of the software (along with the methodology) is rigorously evaluated through the information collected in three academic semesters including the course instructor’s feedback and the questionnaires filled out by the students.

Title: Looking for sustainable software for education in developing countries

Author(s): Munoz-Hernandez, Susana

Organisation(s): Technical University of Madrid, Spain

Presenter(s): Munoz-Hernandez, Susana

Abstract: It is a priority to use new technologies in education at developing countries. There are plenty of software that is used at schools and higher education. Universities and NGOs that work with partners from developing countries ussually trust in the advantages of software applications for e-learning, b-learning or software applications for practical laboratories or administrative issues. It is curious that sometimes many institutions in our own (developed) countries take plenty of wrong decisions related the software that is used in education. But in this paper we are not going to talk about the software that should be used in education in general because it depends on the situation and context of each particular educational institution but we are going to discuss about a set of popular mistakes that are made again and again by institutions (universities from developed countries, NGOs, foundations, volunteer collaborators, etc.) when software applications are developed of just installed in educational education projects.

Title: Synergistic model of content evolution in educational programs for IT industry

Author(s): Shukhman, Alexander E.; Belonovskaya, Isabella D.

Organisation(s): Orenburg State University, Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Shukhman, Alexander E.

Abstract: This article describes the synergistic model of content evolution in educational programs for IT industry. In our model the social medium influence on IT educational programs will be observed in structure and content changes of professional competency system. The model provides the opportunity to develop educational standards and recommendation immediately after significant innovations appear in professional competency structure and content. The evolution model of IT educational programs based on synergistic approach provides a rather precise forecast of necessity to create new profiles and programs in specialist training using the analysis the structure and content changes in professional competencies.

Title: Teamwork competence and academic motivation in computer science engineering studies

Author(s): Pérez Martínez, Jorge Enrique (1); García Martín, Javier (1); Sierra Alonso, Almudena (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain; 2: Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Spain

Presenter(s): García Martín, Javier

Abstract: The present work is focused on studying two issues: the “teamwork” generic competence and the “academic motivation”. The analysis is developed from several points of view: their evolution in teaching-learning process, the interrelationship between them and their influence on academic performance. This study was carried out with computer science engineering students from two Spanish universities.

Title: Postcards from the near Future: Towards Communicating Communications

Author(s): Foley, Jessica; Doyle, Linda; McGettrick, Séamas

Organisation(s): CTVR, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland

Presenter(s): Foley, Jessica

Abstract: We present a case study of a project carried out in a telecommunications research center, which sought to simultaneously investigate and address the difficulties faced by telecommunications researchers in effectively communicating their research with colleagues and stakeholders across academia and industry. To do this, we devised an experimental practice based research project, Postcards from the near Future (PFTNF), as a pedagogical tool to support reflexive practical learning around the challenge faced by researchers to effectively communicate complex technical research. The PFTNF project invited PhD students and Post-Doctorate researchers within the telecommunications research lab to express their technical research through making postcards. The postcards created visual and narrative fictions of a future where research carried out within the telecoms lab might actually become deployed. Our case study of the PFTNF project provides important insights into the nature of the problem of communicating complex technical research. We show how this experimental communicative practice influenced researchers and catalyzed change in the communicative culture of the telecommunications lab. We argue that the kind of experimental communicative practice engendered within the PFTNF project merits further research and development, and we make suggestions to this effect. The process of the PFTNF project enabled an in-depth preparation of the problem of communicating communications. We present the details of this preparation and explain the inductive process of the project. We provide details of the weekly sessions in the lab, which became adapted to studio practice. We present an analysis of ethnographic and interview based data collected from the PFTNF project, and discuss our findings. We show how the PFTNF process provided insights into the problem of communicating telecommunications research. We found that the PFTNF project fostered curiosity amongst researchers in each other’s research, enabled playful exploration of routinized technical research, and offered opportunity for deeper, often neglected, ethical considerations on research practice and pedagogy. The PFTNF project enabled researchers to focus their attention upon areas of research where impact could be achieved, and which may be more relevant to the needs of an increasingly global civilization. Our participant colleagues were provided time and space to share and discuss their research in an appreciative, rather than competitive manner. In this respect the rhetorical device of the ‘postcard as decoy’ is shown to be effective and promising. The PFTNF project makes clear the potential for this kind of experimental practice to cultivate communication in a more nuanced and meaningful way amongst telecommunications engineers. This paper makes a case for the extension of this kind of research practice within the telecommunications research lab. In addition we make an informed speculation on the possibilities for generalizing this practice effectively across other research domains.

Title: Assesment of Flipped Classrom Model in a alculus II Course

Author(s): kadry, seifedine

Organisation(s): American University of the Middle East, Kuwait

Presenter(s): kadry, seifedine

Abstract: In this research, I explored the effects of flipping classroom model in calculus II course at school of engineering; in particular, I studied two main aspects: performance and attitudes. Specifically, I analyzed the impact of this teaching model on students’ performance through their grades. In addition, I evaluated students’ understanding of the classroom flipping model by analyzing students’ answers to rating scale survey. Another feedback received and analyzed from engineering instructors outside the mathematics department. In this article we report the results of this study and discuss the implications for future research and practice to enhance the undergraduate learning experience of mathematics.

Title: Design of the Monitoring System of a Learning Organizer

Author(s): Manso-Vázquez, Mario; Llamas-Nistal, Martín

Organisation(s): University of Vigo, Spain

Presenter(s): Llamas-Nistal, Martín

Abstract: INTRODUCTION There are several types of tools and digital learning environments, each one with a different approach in the way in which users interact with the resources, the tools and among them. There are users that address their learning in various ways. Some do official courses, other ones do online courses, others are self-taught and others may mix any of these three options. Therefore, he have formal education, non-formal learning, which is generally self-regulated learning (SRL), and informal learning which refers to casual learning, not interesting in our case. We use different software tools for each type of learning. The tools used for online formal learning are generally LMSs or the new MOOC platforms, quite similar in many cases. For non-formal learning and SRL is common to use PLEs. PLE users need tools for organizing and managing resources to structure their learning and have control over it. Based on this we are designing a tool that we call the Metacognitive Learning Organizer (MLO), thought to be part of a PLE. CONTEXT: THE MLO The MLO is a learning organizer with embedded metacognitive support, which is being designed for SRL students who may need support to perform common learning tasks. It provides the students with tools to plan, monitor and evaluate their learning, and also with integrated learning strategies, with the intention of boosting the improvement of their metacognitive skills. In [1] we have presented the initial requirements of the MLO and the integration of KWL (Know, want, learned) [2], a learning strategy that fosters reflection and awareness of your own learning process. In [3] we have briefly described the architecture and operation of its main modules, including a learning analytics module designed for students and a learning strategies module that makes recommendations based on the detection of keywords. The tool should allow the students to track their own evolution and to detect things to improve in their learning methods. DESIGN OF THE MONITORING SYSTEM This new publication is focused on determining what information is necessary to enable self-monitoring and educator’s monitoring. We show the methods used to process this information and the interaction among the learning analytics module and the rest of the system. We will identify potential educational uses of this information, such as detecting the need of a learning strategy recommendation by the tool or the detection of a possible learning problem that would be alerted to the educator when used in formal learning. We also describe the methods used to extract these conclusions from the raw information. REFERENCES [1] M.C. Pettenati, M. Ranieri, "Informal learning theories and tools to support knowledge management in distributed CoPs", European Conference on Technology Enhanced Learning (EC-TEL), 2006. [2] D. M. Ogle, "K-W-L: A teaching model that develops active reading of expository text". The Reading Teacher, 39, 6, 1986, pp. 564-570. [3] M. Manso, M. Llamas, "A Metacognitive Learning Organizer to Introduce Learning Strategies for PLE Users and SRL Students", IEEE International Conference on Teaching, Assessment and Learning for Engineering (TALE), 2013.

Title: Using E-Journal to Improve Self-Regulated Learning in Introductory Computer programming course.

Author(s): Alhazbi, Saleh M.

Organisation(s): Qatar University, Qatar

Presenter(s): Alhazbi, Saleh M.

Abstract: Teaching computer programming is not an easy task, it is not just teaching computer language’s syntax, but also training students on different skills which include problem analyzing, program design, writing code, ,debugging and fixing errors [1]. On the other side, students usually face varies difficulties in programming courses, which leads many of them to drop out of computing major or continue with fear of programming assignments in subsequent courses, and end up with a career path that does not require programming skills [2]. These problems represent critical concern for researchers in computer science education. Different instructional approaches have been used to address the difficulties of learning computer programming, these include: project-based method, visualization[3], instructional game method[4], blended learning [5, 6] , and using robot[7]. Although there are different reasons behind these difficulties, the core of these challenges stems from students’ inappropriate method of study to programming subject. This subject depends mainly on problem-solving skills which require students to do much individual practice outside the classroom to improve their skills. In this paper, we describe our experience at Qatar University during Fall 2012 of using student’s E-journal to promote self-regulated learning (SRL) to help students depend on themselves to master required skills for computer programming. SRL aims to make students more aware of their own learning process, and find best learning strategies that fit better with each one’s learning style. Previous research[8] found that students who use more self-regulated learning strategies perform better than others. We have used E-journal to guide students of best practice of SRL strategies which include: planning, progress monitoring, seeking help, self-evaluation and reflection. In order to investigate the effect of using E-journal to train students on SRL skills, we have two groups, treatment group where students used this technique and control group where students did not. In our paper, we discuss different challenge of using this learning tool. Furthermore, we present the method we used to evaluate this experience directly using students’ performance in both groups and indirectly using Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) to assess students’ awareness of SRL strategies in both groups. The results showed that students in treatment group outperformed others in control group, and they are more aware of SRL strategies than those in control group. In general, we found there is a significant correlation between students’ performance and awareness of SRL for both groups.

Title: Distance Training of Computer-based Measurements and Instrument Control

Author(s): Gergic, Bojan

Organisation(s): University of Maribor, Slovenia

Presenter(s): Gergic, Bojan

Abstract: This paper describes the distance training of computer-based measurements and instrument control for professionals from industry which was performed within E PRAGMATIC network (E-Learning and Practical Training of Mechatronics and Alternative Technologies in Industrial Community). The purpose of this training is to teach professionals from the industry the basics of data acquisition and instrument control using the LabVIEW. The training contains hands-on exercises accessible through remote workstation equipped with the state of the art development software and measurement hardware.

Title: A graphical approach for comparing qualifications

Author(s): Gatteschi, Valentina; Lamberti, Fabrizio; Demartini, Claudio

Organisation(s): Politecnico di Torino, Italy

Presenter(s): Gatteschi, Valentina

Abstract: In this work, a graphical way to represent similarities and dissimilarities among qualifications is presented. In order to overcome limitations deriving from the use of a non-standard vocabulary, the WordNet semantic thesaurus is used. Through such graphical representation, end-users could become quickly aware of the main characteristics of a training course with respect to the others, without having to read all the information related to them.

Title: Using the iPad as a Pedagogical Tool to Enhance the Learning Experince for Novice Programing Students

Author(s): Amer, Hoda; Ibrahim, Walid

Organisation(s): UAE University, United Arab Emirates

Presenter(s): Amer, Hoda

Abstract: Learning to program can be very challenging for students in introductory programming courses. These novice programmers face lots of challenges learning the syntax of the new programming language along with the logic of devising a solution to an existing problem. They need to develop many skills to enable them to build a mental model of a certain problem, device a solution for it, then implement and test the solution in a correct way. They also need to understand how programs are compiled and executed. Last year, iPads have been introduced at our institute as a pedagogical tool in the first year general education classes. iPads have been used in classes to better engage students in the learning process. This paper presents our experience in utilizing the iPad as a pedagogical tool to enhance the learning experience of novice programming students.

Title: Applying learning analytics to simplify serious games deployment in the classroom

Author(s): Serrano-Laguna, Ángel; Fernández-Manjón, Baltasar

Organisation(s): Complutense University, Spain

Presenter(s): Fernández-Manjón, Baltasar

Abstract: In this paper we present our approach to introduce educational videogames as class exercises in face-to-face education. The main objective is to simplify teachers’ task when using games by providing real-time information of the actual students’ use of the games while in the classroom. The approach is based on defining the educational goals for the exercise/game precisely, designing a game that captures these goals, establishing relations between game interactions and educational goals and finally, create data capturing and visualizations of the relevant information to support the teacher. We applied this approach to a real case study, creating an educational videogame about the XML markup language that substituted the usual exercises in a Web Technologies class. This was tested with 34 computer science students with positive and promising results.

Title: The Impact of Pedagogical Agents in 3D Collaborative Serious Games

Author(s): Terzidou, Theodouli; Tsiatsos, Thrasyvoulos G.

Organisation(s): Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Presenter(s): Tsiatsos, Thrasyvoulos G.

Abstract: This paper examines the impact of an pedagogical agent (PA), in a 3D collaborative educational game in the virtual environment of OpenSim platform. The main goal of this paper is to evaluate the impact of a pedagogical agent to 3D collaborative game based learning by developing an intelligent interface that interacts with the students both at team and personal level. In order to enhance the already implemented 3D game functions, a pedagogical agent that supports students during the game learning process was implemented. The evaluation approach attempts to investigate the impact of PAs in 3D collaborative educational games focusing on three dimensions: a) on students' attitude towards serious games, b) on PAs usefulness in collaborative 3D games and c) on students' teams performance in the game learning process. This research concludes that the intervention of pedagogical agent's assistance in the game although did not effected students' attitude towards games, has a strong positive impact on teams performance and can be considered as useful in collaborative serious games.

Title: Use computer game to teach Object-Oriented Programming in computer science course

Author(s): Wong, Yoke Seng (1); Mohamad Yatim, Maizatul Hayati (2); Tan, Wee Hoe (3)

Organisation(s): 1: KDU University College, Malaysia; 2: Sultan Idris Education University; 3: Sultan Idris Education University

Presenter(s): Wong, Yoke Seng

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify and evaluate how the computer game could apply as learning and teaching tools for teaching Object-Oriented programming in computer science courses, In order to reduce the complexity of learning object-oriented programming for the student and provide efficient object-oriented design learning environment for the learner. Besides that the propose study will visualizing objects in an interactive game to increase the interaction between participant and the system in order to make the student easy to visualize the object and class. Nowadays, game developer discovered the significant of computer game could be the learning and teaching tools for the learning institution. Thus, the game industry is working very hard to try to reach the objective where adopt game as teaching tool, to increase their market base. At the same time educators are trying in many cases to move away from the traditional passive learning methods and promote participating by the students in the learning process. Therefore, both of these goals can be integrate into a new generation of learning games - Computer Game Based Approach. Basically, this study will carry out the research on the computer game as teaching and learning tool to improve the learning process among the learners in all institution. Computer game requires interaction in between the learner and the game. Computer game could provide a user friendly and more interaction-learning environment to the learner compare with the passive teaching tools. Moreover, learners could pick up the knowledge easily because of the interaction activities between the learner and the gameplay. The significant of this study of this study is to provide and alternative or better tool for the teacher and the learner as well. Both of them could gain more interaction and communication trough the gameplay. Throughout the study, the entire research question will be answer with a suitable development modal for the computer game as teaching and learning tools with sample computer game prototype. This prototype will adopt it as a testing model of this research. As a conclusion, computer games can be useful learning and teaching tools. However it is important to bear in mind, play is one of the very first and most effective ways that learner can get about whatever knowledge they required. Computer game can be an engaging learning medium for the teaching and learning process. Meanwhile computer game can guide the learner step by step to achieve the objective of the learning process base on the leaner skill and their preferences. However, there are many challenges facing and still need a lot of improvement and researches when integration of video games into higher learning institution. Thus, it is necessary to carry out this study to find out some suitable and efficient computer game based learning approach for developing an educational game to teach object oriented programming in higher learning institution.

Title: Requirements on learning analytics for facilitated and non facilitated games

Author(s): Baalsrud Hauge, Jannicke Madeleine (1); Bellotti, Francesco (2); Kalverkamp, Matthias (1); Berta, Riccardo (2); de Gloria, Alessandro (2); Barabino, Giulio (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Bremer Institut für Produktion und Logistik, Germany; 2: University of Genoa, Italy

Presenter(s): Kalverkamp, Matthias

Abstract: Several engineering schools offer gamebased learning either as a supplementary to lecturers or as an integrated part of their curriculum. Most of the games are used in a workshop setting, and much of the learning outcome is achieved through the debriefing part of the workshop, i.e. not as an integrated part of the game. One reason is that many of the games do not offer stealth assessment, and thus need interpretation of a well skilled facilitator. Games only used for one specific course are costly to develop, maintain and improve and in addition facilitated games put limitations on the class size and make it costly to integrate. Thus, this article analysis under which circumstances an on-line game produced for a different course could be integrated in a facilitated and not-facilitated way.

Title: Approaches for Competencies Assessment in Open Source e-Learning Environments

Author(s): Kostadinova, Hristina (1); Raykova, Mariana (2); Tuparov, Georgi (1,3); Tuparova, Daniela Ivanova (1)

Organisation(s): 1: South West University "N. Rilski", Bulgaria; 2: New Bulgarian University; 3: Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Istitute of Mathematics and Informatics

Presenter(s): Tuparov, Georgi

Abstract: Contemporary society requires development of competent persons with high level of knowledge, skills and abilities to solve complex problems. The assessment of competencies has key features in any educational process and sets challenges in front of providers and developers of e-learning services. In this study we perform comparative analysis of functionalities of open source e-learning environments (eLE) regarding of the assessment of competencies. We discuss the possibilities of extension of functionalities of open source e-learning environments so that sustainable enlargement of the eLE can be provided. Also we outline briefly the model of competencies assessment in collaborative learning activities (wiki, blogs etc. ) in on of the most popular eLE - Moodle.

Title: A Human-like Embodied Agent Learning Tour Guide for E-learning Systems

Author(s): Hasegawa, Dai (1); Ugurlu, Yucel (2); Sakuta, Hiroshi (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Aoyama Gakuin University, Japan; 2: National Instruments Japan

Presenter(s): Hasegawa, Dai

Abstract: E-learning users must learn by themselves, without educators. It can be difficult, therefore, for them to maintain or increase their motivation to learn. In this article, to improve the efficacy of e-learning, we propose an e-learning system in which a human-like, embodied conversational agent, interactively guides the learners with a tour of the learning contents. In addition, we investigated the effect of using the posture of the agent on a) users’ learning motivation, b) engagement, c) perception of the agent, and d) learning efficacy. Forty-one undergraduate students participated in our empirical study and we observed that by using human-like posture, the agent could improve the learning motivation and engagement of the participants.

Title: Towards Electronic Exams in Undergraduate Engineering

Author(s): Richter, Thomas; Boehringer, David

Organisation(s): University of Stuttgart, Germany

Presenter(s): Boehringer, David

Abstract: Electronic assessment of computer-based skills at universities provide many advantages over traditional pen-and-paper exams. Students not only get an immediate feedback and may correct typos and oversights right away, teaching staff can already conduct a pre-test of the correctness of the handed in code by testing with example data. In this article we describe a project on implementing electronic assessment in the curriculum of our university on the basis of an already existing and well-tested system currently in use for electronic homework. This system is now going to be extended for assessment purposes and integrated into the eLearning infrastructure of the university. Technological, organizational and legal challenges are shortly described, as well as our plans how to overcome them.

Title: Student Interactions with E-learning Systems: User and Topic Analysis

Author(s): Ugurlu, Yucel (1); Hasegawa, Dai (2); Sakuta, Hiroshi (3)

Organisation(s): 1: National Instruments Japan; 2: Aoyama Gakuin University, Japan; 3: Aoyama Gakuin University, Japan

Presenter(s): Ugurlu, Yucel

Abstract: A LabVIEW-based graphical programming course is being conducted at the Aoyama Gakuin University since the last three years. It is recognized as a multidisciplinary engineering course, and students from various departments are allowed to enroll for the course. This course is organized to provide students with both theoretical and hands-on experience in graphical programming. In this paper, we investigate how e-learning is used in LabVIEW-based graphical programming courses for science and engineering students. For this purpose, a traditional teaching course is blended using an e-learning system, and the individual access history is extracted from the e-learning system. In our graphical programming course, out of a total 41 students who registered for the course, only 29 logged into the e-learning system. First, we investigated the usage of the e-learning system based on the differences in student interests. The individual student data showed that student interest influenced the use of the e-learning system significantly for all 29 students. Eight students accessed the e-learning portal only once and did not login again. Eleven students accessed the e-learning system more than five times. With respect to total access time, the average access time was 295 min and 16 students had more than 60 min of learning experience. In addition, we extracted the e-learning usage duration for each student in the blended learning based teaching course. Our case study shows that majority of students mainly used the e-learning system just before the final exam. However, students with a higher motivation started using the e-learning system significantly earlier. Second, we analyzed student interactions based on the e-learning topics available in the system. We found that the most popular topic in the entire e-learning system was related to certification tests. Other top accessed topics such as Express VI, LabVIEW Introduction, LabVIEW basics, and text file Input/output, which are fundamental topics in graphical programming. In addition, we extracted the learning flow patterns of students based on their access history by tracking the order of accessed topics for each student. Experimental results showed that students accessed Express VI as a first step, which is an interactive and easy programming function in LabVIEW, and then, they switched to other related topics. We depicted the learning flow patterns of students in a visual format.

Title: Dynamical Evaluation Of Academic Performance In E-learning Systems Using Neural Networks Modeling ( Time Response Approach)

Author(s): Mustafa, Hassan M. H.

Organisation(s): Al-Baha University,KSA, Saudi Arabia

Presenter(s): Mustafa, Hassan M. H.

Abstract: This paper explores a relatively new methodological approach for the field integrating learning and education, with other research areas, such as neurobiological, cognitive, and computational sciences. Specifically, presented work is an interdisciplinary piece of research aiming to simulate appropriately a challenging and critical issue concerned with academic performance in e-learning systems. Namely, considering face to face tutoring phenomenon observed while an interactive e-learning process is performed . Referring to strong interest announced by educationalists to know how neurons' synapses inside the brain are interconnected. Together to perform communication processing among brain regions. Herein, a special attention has been developed towards dynamical academic evaluation of timely based brain learning via face to face (FTF) interactive tutoring. In other words, this piece of research presents an interdisciplinary realistic dynamic investigation. For academic performance phenomenon associated with e-learners' contribution as time response performed human's brain neuronal function. Accordingly, Artificial Neural Networks (ANNS) have been adopted for realistic modeling of academic performance evaluation based on timely dependant student's response till attaining learning convergence (desired output). After running of designed realistic simulation program, some interesting results have been presented. Interestingly, individual differences' phenomenon observed via after statistical analysis of obtained simulation results . Keywords-Artificial neural network modeling; E-Learning Performance Evaluation; Synaptic Connectivity; Multiple choice questions

Title: Using LabVIEW for building laboratory server: pros and cons, design patterns, software architecturing and common pitfalls

Author(s): Titov, Igor

Organisation(s): Bauman Moscow State Technical University (BMSTU), Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Titov, Igor

Abstract: This paper describes software engineering best practices in building remote laboratory servers with LabVIEW. Most remote laboratories are started as academic projects. They are usually developed by students during their course projects and not by professional software developers. Thus, such projects would benefit from professional guidance. In this paper we list common LabVIEW design patterns applicable to remote labs. Best practices are described and typical pitfalls are analyzed. Code snippets, demos and live examples will be given during accompanying presentation at the conference.

Title: Learning Analytics on federated remote laboratories: tips and techniques

Author(s): Orduña, Pablo (1); Almeida, Aitor (1); López-de-Ipiña, Diego (1); García-Zubia, Javier (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Deustotech - Deusto Institute of Technology; 2: University of Deusto

Presenter(s): Orduña, Pablo

Abstract: A remote laboratory is a software and hardware tool which enables students to use real equipment -located in an educational institution- through the Internet. This way, students can experiment as if they were using the laboratories with their own hands. And, depending on the design, instructors can later see the results of these students. During the last decade, federation protocols to share remote laboratories have emerged. The focus of these protocols is to be make remote laboratories of one institution available in other in an automated manner, through institutional contracts. And these federation protocols usually rely on existing Remote Laboratory Management Systems (RLMS), which usually provide APIs for tracking student usage. At the same time, the interest on Learning Analytics is increasing. Learning Analytics focuses on the measurement and analysis of data about learners in their context. In the particular context of federated remote laboratories, new challenges arise: on the one hand, remote laboratories must be prepared to track insightful information from the student session so as to extract patterns, and on the other hand, the usage of a federated environment requires different degrees of anonymity. This contribution describes the new Learning Analytics dashboard of WebLab-Deusto, detailing what information can be extracted and how the usage of a RLMS simplifies the development of such tools in a federated environment.

Title: A LabVIEW based Experiment Execution Engine to Ease the Development of ISA batch Lab Servers

Author(s): Garbi Zutin, Danilo; Auer, Michael

Organisation(s): Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, Austria

Presenter(s): Garbi Zutin, Danilo

Abstract: This paper describes the work carried out at the Carinthia University of Applied Sciences to create a LabVIEW based toolkit that aims at providing laboratory developers with a tool to easily develop new batch lab servers for the iLab Shared Architecture. The Toolkit was developed for the ELVIS batch lab server of MIT, but can be used as a general solution for any type of iLab batch Lab Server deployed with LabVIEW at the server-side. The development platform was LabVIEW due to its widespread use in engineering schools. The Toolkit implements the fuction of an experiment engine that parses an experiment specification XML document, executes the experiment and generates an experiment result XML document. The XML parser can be easily adapted

Title: Simple and achievable educational projects by interconnecting different ICs

Author(s): Faustino Andrade, Tiago (1); Rodrigues Quintas, Manuel (1); Restivo, Maria Teresa (1); Caracinha, Diogo (2)

Organisation(s): 1: IDMEC, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Portugal; 2: Sagitrón, Portugal

Presenter(s): Faustino Andrade, Tiago

Abstract: This paper aims to show the usefulness of microcontrollers programming for acting upon the real world in the digitally control of electronic systems, devices and processes. The microcontrollers are programmable integrated circuits incorporating a processor, memories and input/output peripherals. Thru their use it is possible to design professional and educational systems with a small number of components, as it the case of the provided examples in the present work.

Title: Neural Network and Linear Regression Methods for Prediction of Students’ Academic Achievement

Author(s): Mohd Arsad, Pauziah (1); Buniyamin, Norlida (1); Ab Manan, Jamalullail (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Universiti Teknologi Mara Malaysia, Malaysia; 2: MIMOS Berhad Malaysia

Presenter(s): Mohd Arsad, Pauziah

Abstract: Prediction of students’ academic performance is very crucial to any university management to reduce the rate of attrition among students upon graduation. This paper describes a Neural Network (NN) Prediction model that is used to predict the academic performance of students. The outcomes of this model are then compared to results using Linear Regression (LR). This paper presents a comparison study between the effects of fundamental subjects and English courses on the overall final performance of students. The study was carried out at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Malaysia. Grade Points (GP) of students’ fundamental subjects results were used as independent variables or input predictor variables while CGPA in the final semester that is at semester eight is used as the output or the dependent variable. Performances of the models were measured using the coefficient of Correlation R and that of Mean Square Error (MSE). The outcomes of the study from both models indicate a strong correlation between fundamental results for core subjects with the final CGPA. English courses had little effects on the final CGPA.

Title: eCampus as a Platform for Ubiquitous Learning

Author(s): Lapuh Bele, Julija (1); Debevc, Matjaž (2)

Organisation(s): 1: B2 d.o.o., Slovenia; Ljubljana School of Business; 2: University of Maribor, Faculty of electrical engineering and computer science

Presenter(s): Lapuh Bele, Julija

Abstract: Nowadays e-learning take place anytime and anywhere. When it comes to LMS systems, we primarily consider PCs and often forget the mobile devices, especially Smartphones and tablets. According to Gartner Inc. the proliferation of lower-priced tablets and their growing capability is accelerating the shift from PCs to tablets. The number of Smartphones is also growing rapidly. The person’s mobile device is always with him/her and ready for use. LMS system is too complex to be a special application that can be bought in The Google Apps Marketplace (Android), App Store (IOS) or in Windows Store apps (Windows). Standardization has not made sufficient progress to allow software development completely independent of the operating system. Therefore, the web with HTML and CSS is still a platform which can be used on each computer and operating system. However, we need to take into account the browsers with the largest market share (IE, Firefox, Chrome, Safari) in the development of applications. To overcome all these issues we develop an innovative LMS system eCampus which has proved its suitability for implementing e-learning in engineering education. In the development of eCampus 3.0 we used an iterative design process, where we put user (e.g. learner, author, mentor administrator) in the center. He/she can use PC or mobile device, various browsers and different display sizes. As eCampus 1.0 passed usability evaluation with excellent grades, the usability of the new system was the key goal. The absence of a mouse is among major differences between PC and mobile device. Therefore the navigation and input commands are different. If we want to have an application that will look uniform in both types of devices, we need an appropriate user interface design. We chose Microsoft Design Language, which had proved most suitable. As we want an open web platform we also need an appropriate standard. Although the HTML5 standard is scheduled to 2014, we assess HTML5 as the most suitable technology. After research of possible technologies for design of web applications, we also chose CSS and JQuerry technologies. Using these technologies, eCampus was totally renewed. We also added new functionalities (like BI analysis) and develop a product which is suitable for e-learning in companies as well as in higher education institutions. Academic version includes electronic index which will be also available as an application in Apple’s App store or in Google’s Apps Marketplace. eCampus is not only a LMS system. It is also a LCMS system. We included FCK which is an open source WYSIWYG text editor. We add functionalities to it and improve its user friendliness. Many authors start developing their e-content in Word. In order to import e-content in eCampus, they have to use styles and export it to XML format. After importing in eCampus they can edit the content, add multimedia elements, questions and answers for knowledge evaluation, quizzes, etc. eCampus 3.0 passed usability evaluation using comparative benchmark study (task completion rate, System Usability Scale and Single Usability Metric). In the article, the results will be presented.

Title: CampusConnect: An Open-Source Initiative to Connect Learning Management Systems

Author(s): Boehringer, David (1); Bernlöhr, Heiko (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Universität Stuttgart, Germany; 2: FreeIT

Presenter(s): Boehringer, David

Abstract: Joint or cooperative degree programmes of two or more universities have become more and more popular over the last years. They give the opportunity to add the universities’ complementary expertise in a degree programme otherwise not possible. Students are required to study at two different places, at least, at the same time or consecutively, and to find their way through the differing IT infrastructures of the institutions that provide their courses. The project CampusConnect provides the possibility • to publish course information over LMSs of different universities (show students which courses are supported by electronic learning resources at other universities), • to lead the students to these courses (simply by a link), • and to give the students access to these courses (by offering an Single-Sign-On-mechanism). These issues, without CampusConnect time consuming for students and IT staff alike, are handled with a MOM (Message Oriented Middleware) based architecture. The “E-Learning-Community-Server” (ECS) is the middleware between the LMSs of the involved universities that enables the deployment of content information and users between the LMSs. While supporting this, the ECS remains completely invisible to the users and does not compete in any way with the LMSs. The ECS is responsible for the information and message routing between the systems. As a technological requirement the LMSs (and other systems as well) get own connectors that support the web service interface of the ECS. In productive use since 2008 with the LMS ILIAS, the architecture has recently been extended to support the LMSs Moodle and Stud.IP and to connect Campus Management Systems. The article describes the supported scenarios, the design, and the design principles of the architecture of CampusConnect.

Title: Interactive Tools for Teaching Electrical Engineering

Author(s): Vollrath, Joerg

Organisation(s): University of Applied Science Germany, Germany

Presenter(s): Vollrath, Joerg

Abstract: Outcomes based teaching and learning requires monitoring of teaching and students learning. So far teaching can be monitored by video, document camera or screen recordings or by a coach. This creates hard to edit video content. Also static questionnaires are used for outcome monitoring and problem solving purposes. This paper presents a new approach using dynamic HTML5 web pages with JavaScript enabling creating editable and searchable open source content on the fly in real time during lecture. Data can easily be transferred from the web page to data processing tools. This allows explorations by students. Based on this automated problem generation and solving as shown in an example of root mean square voltage calculation. Results can be send to a server to implement a live feedback system. All data and programs are embedded in the web document. Therefore it is much easier to reuse content, evaluate style and improve lectures increasing efficiency of teaching.

Title: A Notification Manager to support collaborative learning in LMS Moodle

Author(s): Echeverría, Leovy (1); Cobos, Ruth (2); Morales, Mario (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana, Montería-Colombia; 2: Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, España; 3: Universidad de Córdoba, Montería-Colombia

Presenter(s): Cobos, Ruth

Abstract: Collaborative learning has many advantages and uses compared to others learning theories. In this sense, computer supported collaborative learning (CSCL) appeared for supporting collaborative learning as an alternative to help in traditional learning methods. In according with the reviewed literature, the awareness concept can be defined as “to be aware”, conscious, not ignorant, having knowledge or being well informed. In the context of groupware systems and CSCL environments, several authors have been developing several definitions about awareness. Additionally, the Learning Management Systems (LMS) are emerging systems that have several aspects to support teaching process. For instance, the Moodle (www.moodle.org) system is a LMS widely used in the academic and corporate field. This system has been improved through the development of new services . In this article, we propose the development of a new awareness service called “Notification Manager”. This manager intends to support student-student interactions in collaborative learning tasks performed by students and instructors into the Moodle system. For the implementation of the proposed awareness service, we selected information elements from four type of awareness: group, tasks, workspace and social awareness. THE NOTIFICATION MANAGER We have considered four concepts associated with the present research work: i) workspace, ii) topics, iii) tasks and iv) knowledge artifacts. •Workspace: it is the shared space by students and instructors where they perform the collaborative tasks in the Moodle course. Each workspace can contain different topics. •Topic: it is comprised by several learning tasks and knowledge artifacts. •Task: it is the activity scripted by the instructor and completed by students in a topic. In the Moodle system the students can perform the following collaborative tasks: i) submit entries, ii) submit comments to other classmates’ entries and iii) submit ratings to other classmates’ entries. •Knowledge artifact: it is the resource that allow students add content to specific topics in the Moodle course. Moodle supports a range of knowledge artifacts such as files, links, book, page, etc. The Notification Manager embedded into the Learning Management System (LMS) Moodle retrieves information from the student-student interactions into the system. This information is related to the collaborative tasks completed by the students in the knowledge artifacts of their fellow classmates in the shared workspace. The mentioned manager has a set of rules that trigger the information through the notifications. These rules determine the type of notification that can be sent to the students. The students can receive two types of notifications: i) notifications about submitted comments to their entries and ii) notifications about submitted ratings to their entries. Moreover, these notifications are displayed through the graphical user interface of the system. For the implementation of the Notification Manager, we developed a new component as a Moodle Activity Module. This component was developed using PHP (Hypertext Pre-processor), HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language) and MySQL. Besides, it was integrated in the system as a “block” plug-in.

Title: TTC Process Control Trainer: Motivations and the design of a laboratory trainer to meet Saudi Arabia educational needs

Author(s): Dabroom, Ahmed Mohammed; Iqbal, Muhammad Javed; Tay, Tee Tiong; Shaukat, Nabil; Mahamood, Shahinshah

Organisation(s): Technology Transfer Center, Royal Commission Colleges & Institutes Division at Yanbu, Saudi Arabia

Presenter(s): Dabroom, Ahmed Mohammed

Abstract: This paper reports on the design and motivations behind the construction of a process control trainer at Technology Transfer Center, Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. There are many difficulties faced by tertiary technical educational institutes throughout Saudi Arabia. Universities and colleges face difficulties like ensuring the availability of suitable laboratory trainer within manageable lead time and cost, quality and responsive technical support throughout the laboratory trainer’s lifecycle, possibility for customizations and ensuring that the laboratory trainer suits local norms and culture. These difficulties serve as the motivation to pursue this project. The process control trainer consists of level, flow and temperature processes. The controller is a software controller in the form of a graphical user interface programmed in National Instrument LabView environment. The major components are the RTD temperature sensor, ultrasonic flow sensor, float type level sensor, variable frequency drive, variable speed pump, solid state relay and heater. The three processes data are measured by the sensors and fed into the controller via the National Instrument USB6008 data acquisition module. The controller output signals are sent via the same data acquisition module either to the variable frequency drive and onwards to the variable speed pump or the solid state relay and onwards to the heater to control the process variables. Thirty six laboratory experiments are designed utilizing the process control trainer to meet the course learning outcome of course EEET1508. The process control trainer is currently deployed in a cohort of thirteen EEET1508 students pursuing their certificate in instrumentation engineering at Yanbu Technical Institute. The feedback gathered will be utilized to improve on the design of the process control trainer and the laboratory experiments.

Title: Integration of laboratory experiments into introductory electrical engineering courses: concept, implementation and competence-based evaluation

Author(s): Block, Brit-Maren

Organisation(s): Leuphana University of Lüneburg, Germany

Presenter(s): Block, Brit-Maren

Abstract: For students, the entering phase of courses is of major importance for their further studies. Therefore the target should be to set up their first semester in a student and competence centered manner. This challenge is met in implementing innovative teaching interventions, and the course „Electrical Engineering“ is be presented as an example. The quality circle from an analysis of the status quo until the final competence based evaluation via intervention development and implementation is to be presented.

Title: Formation of user profile and determination of the training modes in the system “Smart lab”

Author(s): Makarova, Yuliya (2); Langmann, Reinhard (1); Krisilov, Viktor (2); Vu, Huy Ngok (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Dusseldorf University of Applied Sciences, Germany; 2: Odessa National Polytechnic University / Institute of Computer Sciences, Odessa, Ukraine

Presenter(s): Makarova, Yuliya

Abstract: This paper identifies the mechanisms for implementing of the adaptive learning content, problems of formation and storage of user profile of the intellectual system “smart lab” for different modes of learning. The learning modes of the smart lab model are defined, a problems of the adaptation of learning content for different types of users and end equipment are described, the main characteristics and types of users of the intelligent system are identified, the types of training and educational content appropriate to different training modes of the smart lab model are determined.

Title: FORGE: Enhancing elearning and research in ICT through remote experimentation

Author(s): Marquez-Barja, Johann M. (1); Jourjon, Guillaume (2); Mikroyannidis, Alexander (3); Tranoris, Christos (4); Domingue, John (3); DaSilva, Luiz A. (1,5)

Organisation(s): 1: CTVR - Trinity College Dublin, Ireland; 2: National ICT Australia Limited, Australia; 3: The Open University, United Kingdom; 4: University of Patras, Greece; 5: Virginia Tech, USA

Presenter(s): Marquez-Barja, Johann M.

Abstract: The Future Internet Research and Experimentation (FIRE) initiative is a European endeavour that promotes the creation of wide-scale federations of testbed and experimentation facilities for internet and network-related research. These facilities include wireless and sensor networks, software defined networks, high performance computing, optical networks, mobile networks, and smart cities. . FORGE (Forging Online Education through FIRE) is a new project, funded under Framework Programme 7, which aims to transform the FIRE facilities into a learning resource for higher education. In short FORGE will provide and educational layer over the FIRE facilities enabling educators to easily create experiment-based learning resources.

Title: Authoring Learning Designs: The Expressiveness of IMS LD and Collaboration Supports

Author(s): Nurjanah, Dade

Organisation(s): Telkom School of Engineering, Indonesia

Presenter(s): Nurjanah, Dade

Abstract: To date, learning technologies have offered new opportunities to meet the needs of learners and teachers on learning systems that support collaborative and adaptive-personalised learning. These opportunities, however, come with challenges regarding the provision of learning resources. There are two issues: authoring approaches and the pedagogical expressiveness of knowledge representations. This paper discusses the pedagogical expressiveness of IMS LD for collaborative and adaptive-personalised learning. Furthermore, it proposes a collaborative authoring approach that can support learning designers to work effectively. Collaborative, rather than individual, authoring approah is taken into accout regarding the complexity and the huge volume of learning resources. A qualitative experiment we conducted shows that learning designers can work effectively in asynchronous collaborative work with implicit coordination and awareness supports.

Title: A review of webapp authoring tools for e-learning

Author(s): Latorre, Miguel (1); Robles-Gómez, Antonio (2); Rodríguez, Luis (3); Orduña, Pablo (3); San Cristóbal, Elio (1); Caminero, Agustín C. (2); Tobarra, Llanos (2); Lequerica, Irene (1); Ros, Salvador (2); Hernández, Roberto (2); Castro, Manuel (1); López-de-Ipiña, Diego (3); García-Zubia, Javier (4)

Organisation(s): 1: Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, UNED, Spain; 2: Control and Communication System Department, UNED, Spain; 3: DeustoTech – Deusto Institute of Technology, University of Deusto, Spain; 4: Faculty of Engineering, University of Deusto, Spain

Presenter(s): Caminero, Agustín C.

Abstract: This paper aims to review the existing web application toolkits for distance education. In particular, we analize their main features, requirements and issues, as well as the most promising areas for future improvement in this field.

Title: From manuals towards product embedded interactive learning environments

Author(s): Puchleitner, Thomas; Petrovic, Otto

Organisation(s): University of Graz, Austria

Presenter(s): Petrovic, Otto

Abstract: Late developments in information and communication technology show high impact on current implementation of technical documentation. The traditional use of technical documentations was solely defined as technical product information to aid the customer in cases of product learning or handling product malfunctions. Embedding technical documentation into the actual product opens new potentials for consumer learning as well as for various marketing purposes. For private sectors, in form of consumer electronics, and also for business scenarios like testing facilities or manufacturing installations, embedded learning environments enrich the product and open communication channels. By implementing feedback channels, interactive systems can be developed, providing useful information for users and letting businesses gain insights into product usage behaviors at the same time. We identify seven relevant factors for successful implementations of such systems. First implementations for diverse branches to demonstrate the current state-of-the-art in embedded interactive learning environments are depicted. In a critical analysis regarding the selected cases, current limitations and future potentials are highlighted. Finally, we focus on the product engineer’s perspective. Utilizing the product as major communication channel expands the engineer’s responsibilities, requiring new knowledge in business communication. A paradigm shift in the education of engineers is depicted as consequence of future developments.

Title: Developing Moodle Plugin for Creating Learning Content with Another REST Function Call

Author(s): Kautsar, Irwan Alnarus (1); Kubota, Shin-Ichiro (2); Musashi, Yasuo (1); Sugitani, Kenichi (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Kumamoto University, Japan; 2: University of Miyazaki, Japan

Presenter(s): Kautsar, Irwan Alnarus

Abstract: In Moodle Learning Management System (LMS), the REST function calls enable third party applications to access to the Moodle LMS database. However, some REST function calls have not been implemented in the Moodle system, yet. For example REST function call to create sections on Moodle course. Creating section is needed, because, learning content on Moodle need to be placed on section, according to Moodle architecture. Therefore, we developed unprovided Moodle LMS REST function calls as Moodle plugins. This paper presents our current development to enable creation of learning content from third party application, using our own developed Moodle plugin.

Title: Learning Physics down a slide: A set of experiments to measure reality through smartphone sensors

Author(s): Martínez, Lander; Garaizar, Pablo

Organisation(s): University of Deusto, Spain

Presenter(s): Martínez, Lander

Abstract: During the last decade, the use of smartphones among teenagers in their daily life has grown significantly. Despite the efforts to use tablets in learning processes, these teenagers are often prompted to switch off their personal devices before entering a classroom. Moreover, most mobile learning applications do not take advantage of the device sensors (e.g., touchscreen, accelerometer, or gyroscope). In order to overcome this situation, we have developed Serious Physics, a free mobile app that allows using smartphones as measuring tools to conduct experiments on Physics.

Title: Virtual Labs and Remote Labs: Practical experience for everyone

Author(s): Kruse, Daniel; Frerich, Sulamith

Organisation(s): Ruhr Universtität Bochum, Germany

Presenter(s): Kruse, Daniel

Abstract: Engineers work as trouble shooters; they have to solve problems in professional life and “make things work”. Therefore, the ability of transferring theoretical knowledge to practical applications is crucial. Engineering education should take this aspect into account and prepare the students for their future tasks. In addition, it is widely known that subjects taught in an integrated way are more effective for learning than isolated topics. Usually, German engineering education combine theoretical knowledge with practical experience in so-called unit operation laboratories, where students run experiments and analyze the corresponding results. However, laboratory capacity is limited. Only a certain amount of people is able to work at experiments simultaneously, due to time and safety issues. Thus, the availability of laboratory equipment is limited. In order to make these practical experiences available for a lot of students, Virtual Labs and Remote Labs are used as innovative tools. While Virtual Labs use simulation and visualization to create a laboratory experience as realistic as possible, Remote Labs are lab-scale plants operated remotely. Remote Labs can be operated under camera surveillance to broadcast the events that are actually happening. Therefore, Remote Labs offer an almost realistic experience, since they show parameter influences and phenomena simultaneously. One big advantage of Virtual Labs is their safety concept: Since they simulate the whole experiment, no issues with hazardous materials occur and no treatment of waste is necessary. Both kinds of a laboratory experiment can be alternated according to the individual student or operator’s knowledge. Therefore, individually structured learning processes can be created and moderated. The project ELLI (Excellent Teaching and Learning in Engineering Sciences), based on a cooperation between RWTH Aachen University, TU Dortmund and Ruhr-Universität Bochum, is focusing on engineering studies in order to develop innovative concepts and ideas. At Ruhr-Universität Bochum, a call for projects addressing Virtual Labs and Remote Labs was offered to promote their setup in all three faculties of engineering sciences. After a thoroughly consideration of all submissions, eight projects were selected and supported. The criteria determining which projects to choose were based on educational concepts, most realistic experimental setup including boundary areas, and their sustainable integration into existing lectures or seminars. The committee who made the selection consisted of independent deputies of all engineering disciplines including students. In total, a sum of 472 000 EUR was spent. Currently, most of the laboratory projects have been set up, some were already integrated into engineering education. The actual challenge consists of establishing a management system to enable individual accessibility of all projects to use the equipment with high efficiency.

Title: Introduction to Microcomputer Technology with the MSP430 Launch Pad in Remote Labs

Author(s): Versen, Martin; Kipfelsberger, Stefan

Organisation(s): University of Applied Sciences Rosenheim, Germany

Presenter(s): Versen, Martin

Abstract: Texas Instruments’ MSP430 Launch Pad is used as a key component for remote labs that complement an introduction course to microcomputer technology in the bachelor program Mechatronic at the University of Applied Sciences in Rosenheim. The remote labs use breakout boards and include a timer experiment with generation of pulse width modulation signals, I2C communication and analog to digital conversion.

Title: Addressing Low-Power Electronics in a Digital System and FPGA Design Course

Author(s): Winzker, Marco

Organisation(s): Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, Germany

Presenter(s): Winzker, Marco

Abstract: Low power dissipation is a current topic in digital design, and therefore, it should be covered in a state-of-the-art electrical engineering curriculum. This paper describes how low-power design can be addressed within a digital design course. Doing so would be beneficial for both topics because low-power design is not detached from the systems perspective, and the digital design course would be enriched by references to current challenges and applications. Thus, the presented course should serve as an example of how a course can be developed to also teach students about sustainable engineering.

Title: A topic on simulation in telecommunications engineering

Author(s): Barcelo-Arroyo, Francisco; Martin-Escalona, Israel; Zola, Enrica

Organisation(s): Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, Spain

Presenter(s): Barcelo-Arroyo, Francisco

Abstract: Topics on network simulation are often offered as elective topics or short seminars of undergraduate and master programs on computer sciences and telecommunications engineering. In other programs simulation is offered as part of a core topic (e.g. probability and statistics, network performance evaluation, etc.). However, it is not frequent to find simulation offered as a core topic. At the Faculty of Telecommunications Engineering in Barcelona (ETSETB) belonging to the Universitat Politécnica de Catalunya (UPC), it was decided to include network simulation as a core topic in the former integrated master (5 academic years) on telecommunication engineering. This paper deals with the reasons after that decision, reasons that in the authors’ opinion still hold today. The main goal of the paper is to present and discuss how the topic evolved through the years and how it has been migrated to the new careers with separated degree and master after the Bologna process.

Title: Problems Encountered in Technical Education of the Blind, and Related Aids: Virtual Cubarythms and 3D Drawings

Author(s): Mikulowski, Dariusz (1); Brzostek-Pawlowska, Jolanta (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Siedlce University of Natural Sciences and Humanities, Poland; 2: Institute of Mathematics Machines, Warsaw, Poland

Presenter(s): Mikulowski, Dariusz

Abstract: Although an existing different traditional and modern computer techniques, the realization of technical (mathematics and physical) education of the blind and visually empired students at present time is not an easy task. The problem becomes important at a case when the student is a blind person and a teacher is a sighted one who does not know any assistive techniques such as Braille alphabet, screen readers and screen magnifiers software. A new computer remote education technology such as touchscreen mobile devices or graphically available resources that are usually used to derive an education of normal students makes a big barrier for the blind. The barriers to access for blind students to both electronic educational resources as well as remote services on mathematics and physics resulting from the use of other user interfaces for sighted and blind students. Especially important there are differences in the presentation technologies and ways of editing mathematical formulas and drawings. In the paper, the proposal of solutions to help blind students to learn and perform basic mathematical operations with the help of touch screen mobile devices and the presentation of mathematical drawings using 3D printing technologies are explained. These solutions are part of a larger research project that purpose is to develop a mobile platform supporting mathematical and physical education for the blind by sighted teachers.

Title: Experiences of Running MOOCs and SPOCs at UC3M

Author(s): Delgado Kloos, Carlos; Muñoz-Merino, Pedro J.; Muñoz-Organero, Mario; Alario-Hoyos, Carlos; Pérez-Sanagustín, Mar; Parada G., Hugo A.; Ruipérez, José A.; Sanz, Juan Luis

Organisation(s): Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Spain

Presenter(s): Delgado Kloos, Carlos

Abstract: The appearance of MOOCs has boosted the use of educational technology in all possible contexts. Universities are trying to understand this new phenomenon, while experimenting with first trials. Best practices are still are scarce. In this paper, we present first experiences carried out at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, both with MOOCs (massive open online courses) and with SPOCs (small private online courses), their counterparts for internal use.

Title: Serious Games as edX MOOC Activities

Author(s): Freire, Manuel; del Blanco, Angel; Fernandez-Manjon, Baltasar

Organisation(s): Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain

Presenter(s): Fernandez-Manjon, Baltasar

Abstract: Massive Online Open Courses are in the process of radically changing the use of technology in education, as measured both by the number of enrolled students and the level of academic excellence of the institutions that are driving their adoption. Typically, online learning has relied on simple questionnaires for feedback and evaluation. EDX has, from the onset, provided a great flexibility in this regard, providing peer grading and several examples of highly interactive activities such as hands-on simulations. This paper explores the integration of serious games as a new type of activity, providing increased en-gagement and a valuable source of learning analytics. The inclusion of serious games inclusion has implications for both courses and games. Due to the diversity of existing serious game and MOOC platforms, we focus on the specific case of integrat-ing eAdventure games into edX.

Title: Free/Open Source Software Projects as early MOOCs

Author(s): Robles, Gregorio; Plaza-Garces, Hugo; González-Barahona, Jesús M.

Organisation(s): Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Spain

Presenter(s): Robles, Gregorio

Abstract: This paper presents Free/Libre/Open Source Software (FLOSS) Projects as early Massive Online Open Courses (MOOCs). Being software development a process where learning and collaboration is of major importance, FLOSS projects have in common many characteristics with MOOCs. This is because many FLOSS projects (such as Linux, Apache, GNOME or KDE, among others) are massive, they are open to anyone to participate, and are driven mainly by telematic means. We therefore present the research literature that has studied FLOSS projects from points of view that are close to learning and discuss how the FLOSS community has approached many of the issues related to acquiring knowledge and skills over the Internet and compare them to how currently MOOCs, both xMOOCs and cMOOCs, address these situations.

Title: Towards a Collaborative Pedagogical Model in MOOCs

Author(s): Claros, Iván; Echeverría, Leovy; Garmendía, Antonio; Cobos, Ruth

Organisation(s): Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

Presenter(s): Cobos, Ruth

Abstract: The effectiveness of a MOOC as a learning environment could be encouraged by an active students’ participation in social and collaborative learning processes. In this sense, social media service models have showed several successful experiences with collaborative projects. However, the lack of a pedagogical model, coupled with media diversity and the content decentralization, increases the complexity of processes such as coordinating, monitoring and assessment, what in consequence produces an overload to the instructors' work. This paper propose some reflections about monitoring and assessment processes in two collaborative learning approaches and how they could be applied in a MOOC context with the aim to reduce such mentioned overload. Additional, other considerations about massive collaborative learning experiences are presented.

Title: A Practice-based MOOC for Learning Electronics

Author(s): García, Félix; Díaz, Gabriel; Tawfik, Mohamed; Martín, Sergio; Sancristobal, Elio; Castro, Manuel

Organisation(s): UNED, Spain

Presenter(s): Tawfik, Mohamed

Abstract: This paper describes the design, development and first results and impressions of a novel Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) on industrial electronics practices. This was possible by implementing a state-of–the-art remote laboratory within the MOOC to allow online delivery of such practices—which makes this MOOC a first of its kind. Thus, the core of the MOOC is the remote laboratory Virtual Instrument Systems in Reality (VISIR) and the experimentation carried out on it. A preliminary discussion on the design and structure of the MOOC is presented, based on the learning analytics of the MOOC platform and the operations record stored by the remote laboratory. The students’ profile interested in this kind of MOOCs and their needs for getting advantage out of the remote laboratory are also considered in the discussion. The conclusions will result in modifications in this MOOC for a re-edition and the evaluation of the convenience of an advanced new MOOC.

Title: Supporting openness of MOOCs contents through of an OER and OCW framework based on Linked Data technologies

Author(s): Piedra, Nelson (1); Chicaiza, Janneth (1); López, Jorge (1); Tovar Caro, Edmundo (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Universidad Técnica particular de Loja, Ecuador; 2: Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Spain

Presenter(s): Tovar Caro, Edmundo

Abstract: The arrival of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and the growth of open and online education - Open Educational Resources (OER), OpenCourseWare (OCW)- is increasingly the focus to self-learners as the primary target group. The OER movement has tended to define “openness” in terms of access for use and reuse to educational materials, and to address the geographical and financial barriers, between students, teachers and self-learners with distinguished educational institutions. MOOC initiatives emphasize free access and interactive features rather than static content, the dominant message is of the quantity of access rather than the openness of educational resources for use, re-use, adaptation or repurpose. The purpose of this paper is present a framework based on semantic web technologies to support the inclusion of open materials in massive online courses and significantly to improve discovery, accessibility, visibility, and to promote reuse of open educational content in massive course The framework provides a service that allows you to discover and access open educational resources that are extracted from open repositories distributed. Our principal OER providers are OCW institutions. In this context, we opted to apply the principles of Linked Data to integrate, interoperate and mashup data from distributed and heterogeneous repositories of open educational materials..

Title: Connecting the dots: MATLAB® and Simulink® help engineering education to take advantage of new teaching agents

Author(s): Tarchini, Alex

Organisation(s): The Matworks, Inc., United States of America

Presenter(s): Tarchini, Alex

Abstract: A distinctive of the modern liquid societies is that teaching and learning happen through many diverse channels. The availability of formal, non-formal and informal education makes difficult to understand the interrelationships among various teaching and learning agents and conceive curricula with the right balance of discipline and practice. From its observation deck, MathWorks for the last few years has been carefully watching the engineering education landscape, helping universities to test and implement new methodologies like Problem-Based Learning (PBL) and CDIO that have offered viable alternatives to “traditional” engineering education. New phenomena such as MOOCs and FabLabs are asking the education systems to renew their practices, in order to take advantage of their fresh energy. This speech will start with a short analysis of the influence of MOOCs and FabLabs on engineering education, and will then present how educational systems might leverage them in support of modern engineering curricula.

Title: Industry 4.0 & Education 4.0

Author(s): Langmann, Reinhard

Organisation(s): University of Applied Sciences Duesseldorf, Germany

Presenter(s): Langmann, Reinhard

Abstract: The Industry 4.0 project in Germany was launched in 2012 on the basis of an implementation recommendation by a research union of business and science to the German federal government, so as to ensure Germany's future as a production centre. Similar projects also exist in other high-tech countries (e.g. Obama„s program „Advanced Manufacturing“). Industry 4.0 addresses the evolutionary technological transformation involved in the merger of modern information technologies with conventional industrial processes. Education 4.0 normally stands for the future form of e-learning using the current Internet technologies for learning and educational purposes. Implementation of Industry 4.0 concepts requires excellent educated expert personnel and engineers. To this end, digital media and innovative learning technologies from the Education 4.0 methods must be utilized efficiently in order to impart complex technical learning content in a practical and competence-oriented manner. The keynote will give an overview about the education & qualification requirements for Industry 4.0 and demonstrate the implementation in the research&training factory Fab21 as an example.

Title: Quality despite quantity – teaching large classes in C programming and fundamentals in computer science

Author(s): Vogel-Heuser, Birgit; Frank, Timo; Rehberger, Sebastian; Aicher, Thomas

Organisation(s): Technische Universität München, Germany

Presenter(s): Aicher, Thomas

Abstract: The learning processes in information technology, software engineering and in particular of a programming language are a typical practical matter that cannot be learned in a short amount of time, but should be taught and learned continuously during the whole semester. To manage this conflict of objectives, an efficient deployment of the learning matter over the whole semester with the aid of web-based e-learning in combination with an interactive lecture concept and a practical course should be an optimized didactical setup. An e-learning system has been introduced and developed continuously over the past three years, which offers a platform-independent access through PCs, tablets and smartphones. Thus, a location-independent learning space has been created. In the lecture room, the e-learning system incorporates the support of an interactive lecture with a survey module that can be reached via smartphone easily through QR code scanning. Furthermore, the lecturer can use the tool for creating several types of exercises. The e-learning system includes a highly sophisticated modeling editor for creating SysML models, automata or IEC 61131 3 programming elements and a web-based development environment for the programming language C. The exercises are evaluated fully automatically and no efforts for correction have to be made by lecturers; hence, effort is reduced and personnel resources may be used for additional face-to-face exercises allowing deeper focus on the didactical concept. Furthermore, it can be taken into consideration to use the system for massive open online courses (MOOC) or a remote class. In contrast to classical e-learning platforms such as KHANacademy, edX and me Salva!, we propose a holistic and interactive platform satisfying both needs of lecturers and students in the mechanical engineering domain. Following the introduction of the e-learning system within the course, the results of the final exam improved significantly. We evaluated the development of average grade and percentage of non-passing students separately, since the students write the exam in the summer regularly and may retry to pass the following semesters. The result of the students’ evaluation has improved significantly after the new teaching concept was introduced. The textual evaluation shows an enormous rise in students’ satisfaction, especially by offering participation through the survey mechanism increasing interactivity in the class room. For the summer semester 2013, the e-learning system was redesigned further to act as control module for simulated or real lab-size plants. The paper introduces the e-learning platform in more detail and its design to support teaching of large classes of freshmen in C programming and fundamentals in computer science. Derived from multiple experiments and surveys conducted during the last years, its scientific founding as well as architecture and features are presented. The benefit of introducing the platform is shown using a real set-up of approx. 700 B.Sc. mechanical engineering students. The results show that success in e-learning exercises led to a significant higher result in the final exam. Furthermore we evaluated the impact of gender aspects on results in both e-learning exercises and final exam, which will be presented in detail in the paper.

Title: Virtual-C - a programming environment for teaching C in undergraduate programming courses

Author(s): Pawelczak, Dieter; Baumann, Andrea

Organisation(s): UniBw Munich, Germany

Presenter(s): Pawelczak, Dieter

Abstract: The C programming language plays an important role in the education of engineers especially in the field of embedded systems. On the other hand C is often a burden for students in the first year, as they have many difficulties in writing their own programs and the failure rates of course examinations are typically high. We have investigated different approaches at our faculty in the last years, how to enhance the students’ capabilities in C programming and to lower the failure rate of the C-programming course. Several concepts involved are: visualization of control and data flow, game programming, automated assessment tools, and plagiarism detection. Some of these concepts have been integrated into the Virtual-C IDE, an integrated development environment that instantly can debug C-files, visualizes the process execution and provides a web interface for the integration in automatic assessment tools. This paper discusses the educational benefits of using the IDE for lectures, self-learning and as a platform for programming assignments.

Title: Cloud E-learning and Benchmarking Platform for the Parallel and Distributed Computing Course

Author(s): Ristov, Sasko (2); Gusev, Marjan (2); Velkoski, Goran (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Innovation, Skopje, Macedonia; 2: Ss. Cyril and Methodius University, Macedonia, Former Yugoslav Republic of

Presenter(s): Ristov, Sasko

Abstract: Recently we developed and implemented the E-learning and Benchmarking Platform for the Parallel and Distributed Computing Course. Although this platform reduced the students' problems, we faced additional problem, that is, lack of resources. In this paper, we propose the architecture and organization of usage of use the cloud based architecture in order to upgrade this e-Learning and benchmarking platform prototype into a scalable and elastic platform, where the system will send the execution on the virtual machine instance hosted on the cloud node with available resources.

Title: RFID in Electronic Engineering Education

Author(s): Grout, Ian (1); César Rodrigues da Silva, Alexandre (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Limerick, Ireland; 2: State University of Sao Paulo (UNESP), Brazil

Presenter(s): Grout, Ian

Abstract: In this paper, a discussion is presented into ways in which the area of radio frequency identification (RFID) can be introduced to students studying electronic and computer engineering at the university level and different teaching and learning scenarios will be considered. The idea is to consider how to present the engineering aspects of such technology in a meaningful way and which identifies how the different aspects of electronic and computer engineering come together to form the overall system. The engineering concepts behind RFID are those taught in all years of an engineering programme, from first year basic passive components (resistors, capacitors, inductors and transformers) to computer programming, computer-peripheral interfacing and electronic system design. As such, there are many different aspects of electronic and computer engineering which need to be considered. How these concepts can be presented and understood requires careful thought and to undertake the development of such a teaching and learning scenario requires the students to be introduced to a detailed theoretical background as well as suitably practical hands-on experience.

Title: Antiplagiarism in educational remote laboratories done right: technological, educational and psychological implications

Author(s): Titov, Igor; Glotov, Alexander; Bondarenko, Dmitry; Savkin, Sergei

Organisation(s): Bauman Moscow State Technical University (BMSTU), Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Titov, Igor

Abstract: Remote and virtual labs are becoming increasingly more important in engineering education. With growing number of students it is desirable to automate teacher’s work as much as possible. A number of plagiarism checking software tools already exist but they are mostly text-oriented. Laboratory session reports usually contain many graphs and plots. Also, in the case of remote and virtual laboratories a master copy of experimental data produced by students is also at teacher’s disposal. This paper addresses the problems connected with the laboratory work reports provided by students. The software solution for mitigating such problems in a pilot remote laboratory is described. Details of technical implementation of such system are discussed. A new format for unique identifiers for experimental data in remote labs is proposed. It is argued that not only such system can potentially prevent students from cheating but it can also prevent them from attempting to cheat.

Title: Deconstructing remote laboratories to create Laboratories as a Service (LaaS)

Author(s): Caminero, Agustín C.; Robles-Gómez, Antonio; Ros, Salvador; Tobarra, Llanos; Hernández, Roberto; Pastor, Rafael; Castro, Manuel

Organisation(s): UNED, Spain

Presenter(s): Caminero, Agustín C.

Abstract: The creation and publication of utilities as services (the most widely known being Infrastructure as a Service, IaaS, Platform as a Service, PaaS, and Software as a Service, SaaS) has been a hot topic of research and development for the recent years. They allow easy creation and deployment of infrastructures and applications which increase the versatility and usefulness of the Information Technology (IT) budgets of institutions that implement them. This paper proposes the development of Laboratories as a Service (LaaS), which allow users of remote laboratories create versatile experiments adapted to their needs.

Title: Middleware Solutions for Service-Oriented Remote Laboratories: A Review

Author(s): Tawfik, Mohamed; Sancristobal, Elio; Ros, Salvador; Hernandez, Roberto; Caminero, Agustín; Tobarra, Llanos; Garcia-Loro, Felix; Latorre, Miguel; Carro, German; Diaz, Gabriel; Castro, Manuel

Organisation(s): Spanish University for Distance Education (UNED)

Presenter(s): Tawfik, Mohamed

Abstract: the evolution of Web 3.0 and consequently eLearning 3.0 have demanded a major change of the way learning objects are provided and implemented. It is foreseen that learning objects in eLearning 3.0 should be interoperable and easily discovered, and will represent any kind of virtual or physical object. Several approaches attempted to implement remote laboratories as a service in order to achieve such interoperability and to allow their integration into heterogeneous educational systems for pedagogical purposes and for more convenience, as well as, their coupling and mashing up with other learning objects in order to yield a scaffold and rich educational environment. This paper provides a broad study on the available middleware solutions for service-oriented remote laboratories implementation, emphasizing the pros and cons of each and the upcoming challenges in developing service-oriented remote laboratories. Different types of application scenarios are taken into account (e.g., real time, live streaming, uploading files, etc.). Finally, the paper introduces the semantic service-oriented remote laboratories concept and their possible methods of implementation using semantic Web services.

Title: Integrating Enquiry-based Learning Pedagogies and Remote Access Laboratories for STEM Education

Author(s): Maiti, Ananda; Maxwell, Andrew D.; Kist, Alexander A.; Orwin, Lindy

Organisation(s): Univerity of Southern Queensland, Australia

Presenter(s): Maiti, Ananda

Abstract: Remote Access Laboratories (RAL) provide access to state-of-the-art science experiments and are capable of giving its users increased learning opportunities. These environments, if used in schools, can be highly effective in increasing students’ interest and skill in science knowledge and their communication and design skills. Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) is an interdisciplinary approach to encourage school level students to study fields related to STEM and is now a top challenge worldwide. However, the prevalent RAL technologies were developed for, and more suitable to, undergraduate engineering education. The limited operational autonomy and opportunities for collaboration restricts development of design skills and team-work, both necessary component of STEM education in schools. In this paper, different ways to expand the features of RAL to make it suitable for enquiry based learning in STEM is discussed.

Title: Integration of management services for remote/virtual laboratories

Author(s): Pastor-Vargas, Rafael; Tobarra-Abad, Llanos; Ros-Muñoz, Salvador; Hernández-Berlinches, Roberto; Caminero, Agustín; Robles, Antonio; Castro, Manuel; Díaz, Gabriel; Sancristobal, Elio; Tawfik, Mohamed

Organisation(s): UNED, Spain

Presenter(s): Caminero, Agustín

Abstract: Basic development of virtual and remote laboratories [1] [2] consists in designing a software system with Internet connection capabilities. This system must allow direct interaction with such laboratory [3]. Once this is done, the next step consists in the laboratory’s deployment. This deployment permits managers to control the laboratory’s visibility. Also, users (usually students) can get access to the laboratory in order to run the defined experiments. In a real environment it’s very important to take in account some aspects related to the laboratory’s management: - Users associated to the laboratory. - Authorization system for users (role based) - Analytics about laboratory use (sessions based). - Booking system. - Access to experiment’s saved data. The laboratory’s developer must take in account the previous aspects, so he/se must provide an implementation of these services (more develop effort is needed). The final objective is get a reliable and efficient system related to the use/consume of laboratory’s resources. Obviously, the implementation can be specific for the lab’s implementation, but it’s more efficient to reuse tools and services developed with this objective in mind. This is the RELATED case [4]. RELATED allows the building of remote and virtual laboratories in a methodological and structured way. But also it provides a set of services which implements the aspects to consider in the deployment of online laboratories. The RELATED’s services are implemented using a reliable architecture based on Service Oriented Architectures (SOA). Every aspect previously considered is implemented by SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) services. These services are orchestrated to get a fully functional system which combines different scenarios of services usage. Also, these SOAP services can be consumed by web/mobile applications. In this particular case, RELATED has a functional web which uses these services [5]. The services architecture is based on a modular approach and every laboratory integrated in RELATED uses them automatically. This way, any RELATED laboratory uses this service to check user’s authorization, bookings, etc. In this paper is shown how a simple online laboratory (with no management services) can be integrated into RELATED to get access to the full set of services provided by RELATED. The automatic use of services has so many advantages, but the more important is the development’s time saving. The paper is structured as follows. In section II, it’s shown the initial development of a low cost online laboratory. This laboratory uses Lego components to build a wind turbine system. The integration with the RELATED framework and services is presented in section III. Section IV shows how managers and users can use the services by interacting with the RELATED web site. Also, it will presented how the running of laboratory’s experiment is done form the RELATED’s point of view. Finally, conclusions will be presented in the last section.

Title: To Design an Interactive Learning System for Child by integrating Blocks with Kinect

Author(s): Chen, Ke-Wei (1); You, Jia-Sheng (1); Hsu, Feng-Chih (1); Hsieh, Yi-Zeng (2); Chou, Chien-Hsing (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Department of Electrical Engineering, Tamkang University, Taiwan; 2: Intel-NTU Connected Context Computing Center, National Taiwan University, Taiwan

Presenter(s): Chou, Chien-Hsing

Abstract: In this study, an interactive block-building system named as e-Block system is developed for children to learn the concepts of geometric structures and space. First, the system displays a picture (e.g., car or house) of the target object intended for the child to assemble. The child then follows the instructions provided by the system and uses various blocks to build the object. After the child has completed the task, the system employs a pattern recognition algorithm to automatically compare the assembled object with the picture and determine whether the shape is identical. In the proposed pattern recognition algorithm, the Kinect is used to obtain information regarding the depth of the object, and then a new projection algorithm is proposed to convert the depth information into input features. Finally, the k-nearest neighbor algorithm is employed to construct the classifiers. The experimental results show that the proposed system can accurately recognize whether the assembled object is the same to the test picture. In addition, children in testing are enjoy this system and have more motivation to play with building blocks.

Title: Attracting, Engaging and Retaining Students in Engineering Programs – A Case Study

Author(s): Imran, Ahmed; Nasor, Mohamed; Hayati, Fahar

Organisation(s): Ajman University of Science & Technology, United Arab Emirates

Presenter(s): Imran, Ahmed

Abstract: In this case study, statistical data was used from accredited undergraduate programs in electrical engineering to analyze and compare two distinct groups of students for various patterns related to program enrollment, retention and attrition. Group A (GA) students were admitted in the years 2000–2005. Group B (GB) students were admitted in the years 2006–2011. The two groups differed in terms of their program-related admission and completion requirements, curriculum design and curriculum contents. Cumulative data until the academic year 2012–13 was analyzed. The total intake for GA was 2% more than that for GB. The student retention was 46% for GA and 71% for GB. This is a significant improvement in the retention of students for GB over GA. Further, from those students who aborted their programs, 53% of the total attrition for GA and 79% for GB occurred in the first year of admission. These patterns showed similarities when analyzed separately for the sub-group of women students only. The analysis suggests that the retention of undergraduate engineering students could be influenced by admission requirements, program completion requirements and curriculum design and contents. Further, first year students require more attention.

Title: An Engineering Approach to Developing Lecture Material for new Study Courses

Author(s): Studt, Reimer (1); Weiß, Florian (1); Mottok, Jürgen (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Applied Sciences Landshut, Germany; 2: Regensburg University of Applied Sciences

Presenter(s): Studt, Reimer

Abstract: Creating lectures requires the creation of new course material tailored to the needs of the degree courses in high quality and within an efficient amount of time. In order to achieve this, a systematic process for developing lecture material is presented.

Title: Profiling Students’ Performance and Measuring their Progress in the area of Multimedia Communications

Author(s): Papadakis, Andreas (1); Samarakou, Maria (2); Tsaganou, Grammatiki (3)

Organisation(s): 1: School of Pedagogical and Technological Education (ASPETE), Greece; 2: Technological Education Institute (TEI) Athens,Greece; 3: Universiity of Athens, Greece

Presenter(s): Papadakis, Andreas

Abstract: In our work we have elaborated the assessment of the student’s performance in engineering modules. In order to maximize the usefulness to the student, such assessments should be individualized and accompanied with helpful and guiding feedback. To this end we have developed a methodology and a system that project the assessment information on independent (vertical) but complementary cognitive planes which form the educational status. This leads to understand in a more effective and deep manner the student’s educational needs, his learning style and eventually his profile. The context has been the engineering courses.

Title: Students´ Skills Perceptions for Engineering

Author(s): Depieri, Adriana Anunciatto; Lopes, Roseli de Deus

Organisation(s): University of Sao Paulo, Brazil

Presenter(s): Depieri, Adriana Anunciatto

Abstract: Engineers play a key role in the technological development of any country, as it is seen as a systemic condition essential to improve the competitiveness of national economy and to facilitate society evolution. Therefore, besides good infrastructure and high quality of human sources, encouraging high school students to pursue a career in Engineering is crucial in building a strong foundation for a successful future nation. Besides good infrastructure and high quality of human sources, encouraging high school students to pursue a career in Engineering is crucial in building a strong foundation for a successful future nation. Even though the number of Brazilian citizens pursuing science and engineering degrees, primarily undergraduate and doctoral, has been slowly growing in the past ten years, high school students tend to become less literate in science and mathematics, as they progress towards high school graduation, as demonstrated by PISA outcomes. In spite of the well-known relevance of science and mathematics for engineering education, high school readiness alone does not prepare young people with skills and abilities of today's engineers. Students need not only solid education in science, mathematics, and technology, but also an education beyond high school subjects, including other solid enough foundations of literacy, numeracy, and thinking skills to prosper in university levels. This paper presents a study that addresses the issue of high school students’ perceptions of how important engineering skills are, and how these relate to their intention to take engineering university courses. Our hypothesis was that students´ overall perception on the importance of some characteristics, abilities, competencies and qualities needed for engineering were directly related to their engineering career choice. A student survey was developed in order to determine if high school students´ perceptions of engineering skills differ between students who consider engineering as a career (group 1) and students that do not consider engineering as a career (group 2). Students were asked to complete a paper-based questionnaire during the event “USP and the Professions 2013”. The survey structure consisted of three parts: participants’ profile (age, gender, type of school, kind of course and class year), evaluated questions (six-point Likert-type scale items) and engineering choice or not. We collected 508 answered questionnaires, digitalized and analyzed the data. Overall survey results demonstrated that high school students perceive how important some skills are to engineering. Based on students’ perceptions responses, mathematics and physics are the most important technical skills to engineering, added to other important skills like initiative and mathematical reasoning. On the other hand, except for a few items, contradicting our initial hypothesis, the questionnaires data analysis show that students´ perceptions on the importance of engineering skills did not differ significantly between the two groups. The results corroborate to the thought that to be prepared for today's engineering, high school students need not only solid education in science, mathematics, and technology, but an education beyond high school subjects, including other solid enough foundation such as literacy, numeracy, and thinking skills to prosper in engineering.

Title: Summative EEG Alpha classification relates Learning Style and Openness

Author(s): Abdul Rashid, Nazre bin (1); Taib, Mohd. Nasir bin (2); Hj. Murat, Zunairah binti (2); S. Abd. Kadir, Ros Shilawani binti (2); Sulaiman, Norizam bin (2); Lias, Sahrim bin (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia; 2: Universiti Teknologi Mara, Malaysia

Presenter(s): Abdul Rashid, Nazre bin

Abstract: Learning Style (LS) had been drawn as one of the important domains in a learners' profile. LS was considered as a relevance to different aspects of teaching and learning such as learner’s achievement and motivation. On the other hand, personality traits of Openness have been interpreted as a major trait which causally and positively linked to knowledge and skill acquisition, hence its relevance to learning and learner differences. Therefore, an effort to ascertain the matching between LS and Openness were seen as significant findings to underline a substantive learners' profile. In this research, Kolb’s Learning Style Inventory (KLSI) had been employed to determined participants’ (N= 131) LS of Diverger, Assimilator, Converger or Accommodator. Then, Electroencephalogram (EEG) technology was utilized to gather their brain signals. The signals dataset of Alpha is selected, processed and classified towards the corresponding LS using statistical tool of 2-Step Cluster Analysis. The result shown 100% classification of brain signals towards LS achieved while Accommodator found as the LS that related to Openness.

Title: Just-in-Time Teaching in Software Engineering: A Chinese-German Empirical Case Study

Author(s): Tao, Ye (1); Liu, Guozhu (1); Mottok, Jürgen (2); Hackenberg, Rudi (2); Hagel, Georg (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Qingdao University of Science and Technology, China, People's Republic of; 2: Laboratory for Safe and Secure Systems, LaS³, Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule (OTH ) Regensburg; 3: Kempten University of Applied Sciences

Presenter(s): Mottok, Jürgen

Abstract: Learning centered teaching becomes an important factor in a global perspective of learning software engineering. The Just-in-Time Teaching approach is used in a Chinese-German empirical case study. In a one year terminated project we will analyze the performance of our students in an active learning scenario with Just-in-Time Teaching and Peer Instruction. We will contribute an inter-cultural comparison of achieved competencies by student’s self-assessment and teacher’s observation.

Title: Preparation on cultural differences for all

Author(s): Welzer, Tatjana

Organisation(s): University of Maribor, Slovenia

Presenter(s): Welzer, Tatjana

Abstract: Erasmus is probably the most well-known European Commission (DG for Education and Culture) program to support the mobility of students, teachers and staff. There are also many others that support mobility, either worldwide or locally. The main goals of mobility for students and teachers independent of the program are learning and teaching in different cultural and lingual environments, as well as learning languages and benefiting from cross-cultural experiences and cultural differences. Quite often, neither students, teachers nor staff are as prepared for the active participation in different cultural and lingual environments as they are for domestic ones. Institutions primarily take care of the lingual readiness of students and sometimes cultural education is also included but rarely is any preparation done for teachers and staff. If the preparation is done for teachers and staff on mobility it is usually never done for those who are staying at home and working at a home institution with mobile students. The situation is also similar for non-mobile home students. Real life shows that preparing for cultural differences is needed for all of them.

Title: Student Exchange Programs in Engineering Sciences between USA and Germany

Author(s): Strenger, Natascha; Frerich, Sulamith; Petermann, Marcus

Organisation(s): Ruhr Universität Bochum, Germany, Germany

Presenter(s): Strenger, Natascha

Abstract: In the Unites States of America (USA), as well as in Germany, the international mobility of students in engineering sciences is rather low in comparison to students of other disciplines. While the USA are the most attractive host country for German engineering students, American students’ interest in coming to Germany is not equally great. Facing different teaching languages and semester times, summer school formats seem to be a good solution for German universities to attract students from the USA. However, summer schools might not always be the most suitable way of providing possibilities for the development of international skills. At the Ruhr University Bochum, the project ELLI works on the further development of student exchange programs in engineering education. This short paper represents work in progress. It gives an overview of the context of student exchange in and between the USA and Germany and describes the results of one case study that was made in Bochum.

Title: Landscape format - a course concept to stimulate interdisciplinary dialogue

Author(s): Berbuir, Ute (1); Petermann, Marcus (1); Berens, Tobias (2); Wagner, Pia (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany; 2: BIT - Berufsforschungs- und Beratungsinstitut für interdisziplinäre Technikgestaltung e.V.

Presenter(s): Berbuir, Ute

Abstract: Professional life of engineers is strongly formed by complex questions which include economical, ecological or social aspects. Therefore the ability to communicate with members of different disciplines is essential to cope with the multidisciplinary tasks. In the so called ‘landscape format courses’ engineering students work together with students of the humanities. A theme of multidisciplinary relevance is illustrated in lectures by experts from different disciplines and intensively discussed in student working groups, arranged according to the ‘problem-based learning’ method. This paper gives an account of work in progress and previous experiences.

Title: Youth interests as vehicles for the acquisition of technological competence: Insights from two participatory projects

Author(s): Berger, Thomas; Hofstätter, Birgit; Thaler, Anita; Freitag, Daniela

Organisation(s): IFZ - Inter-University Research Centre for Technology, Work and Culture, Austria

Presenter(s): Berger, Thomas

Abstract: This work-in-progress paper will provide insights into two educational research projects that are currently conducted by a research group at IFZ. Both projects use youth interests as a vehicle to the acquisition of technological competence (Negt 1998; Thaler 2010, 2011). One of them – useITsmartly – seeks to make adolescents aware of the environmental consequences of IT-use. The other one – transFAIRmation - aims to encourage critical media reception and political participation through media analysis and remixing. Technological applications thereby act as carriers of potential for (political) media participation or creative tinkering to save energy. The aim of this work-in-progress paper is to outline the underlying ideas and current stages of the two projects and to discuss their methods and implementation of the vehicle theory.

Title: Software Mangineeringment: Teaching Project Management from Software Engineering Perspective

Author(s): Tomer, Amir

Organisation(s): Kinneret College, Israel

Presenter(s): Tomer, Amir

Abstract: Software Engineers are often promoted to management positions, based on their engineering excellence, lacking management knowledge, which is not always part of their undergraduate SE program. Moreover, very early in their career software engineers face management issues, when they are required to meet budget and schedule, to assess potential risks, to make make/buy decisions or to maintain effective communications over globally-dispersed teams. These combined jobs may be referred to as “Software Mangineeringment”. General Project Management education does not equip these engineers with enough relevant practice for the software domain. This article describes an undergraduate course which combines the general project management theory and practice with software-specific practices. The course framework is the guide to Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide), which includes 42 projects management processes organized categorized into 9 Knowledge Areas. The course extends these processes with many practices taken from a large variety of software engineering resources. The course is also delivered as an industrial seminar targeted at software managers in their initial management steps.

Title: Identifying Base Competencies as Prerequisites for Software Engineering Education

Author(s): Thurner, Veronika; Böttcher, Axel C.H.; Kämper, Andreas

Organisation(s): University of Applied Sciences Munich, Germany

Presenter(s): Thurner, Veronika

Abstract: Over the recent years, we experienced that a significant percentage of first-year students shows difficulties in acquiring even introductory software development knowledge, as well as in coping with the study process itself. In most cases, the core problem is not a lack of general intellectual capacity, but rather significant deficiencies in certain base competencies (i.e. self, practical and cognitive as well as social competencies). An important step towards remedying this situation is to identify those base competencies that are crucial for successfully studying computer science or related topics. Only if we have explicitly understood these base competencies, we can move on to assess where our students stand initially, and to develop teaching methods that not only impart software technical knowledge, but at the same time develop those essential basic skills that were initially lacking.

Title: New Sustainable Teaching Approaches in Software Engineering Education

Author(s): Kropp, Martin (1); Meier, Andreas (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland, Switzerland; 2: Zurich University of Applied Sciences Winterthur, Switzerland

Presenter(s): Kropp, Martin

Abstract: Ten years ago, it was usual that projects in the software industry ran on for years before the customer was able to lay his hands on the product he had ordered. This often resulted in delays, budget overruns and disappointing deliverables. During the last decade, the Agile approach has been taking over software project management, shortening product development cycles from a few years to a few weeks or even days. Recently, the agile approach has even been used for developing a new car which runs 100 miles per gallon [1]. Several recent surveys [2], [3] show that agile methodologies like Scrum, Extreme Programming or Kanban have successfully been adopted by many companies to develop software. However, agile methodologies do not come for free. A different set of skills, or agile practices as they are called, are necessary for the software engineers in order to be able to sucessfully deliver high-quality software at the end of every iteration. The same surveys show that only few of the agile practices are used and even fewer are applied consequently and thoroughly. This is to a great extent due to the lack of skilled software engineers. Although teaching agile software development has drawn some attention in recent research, we do not yet seem to be able to “deliver” the appropriately skilled engineers. What is the reason for this, and more importantly, how can we improve the situation? In this position paper we propose a more holistic approach for teaching agile software engineering, in which the required agile practices and values are not only integrated theoretically but also practically applied and repeated until they become a habit to students and software engineers.

Title: Controlling Quad-Copters A Project-based Approach in the Teaching of Application Design

Author(s): Winterfeldt, Götz (1); Hahne, Christina (2)

Organisation(s): 1: TH Deggendorf, Germany; 2: Munich Re

Presenter(s): Winterfeldt, Götz

Abstract: Abstract—In this paper we present our experiences using a project-based approach to teach application design. We adapted a systems engineering approach for our course [1]. Students design and implement a platform to test various input devices to control quad-copters. We use speech recognition, keyboard and mobile sensors among other items to control the copters. Students gain the theoretical background in the classroom blocks and apply their knowledge in practical exercises with increasing complexity. Students present their architecture at the end of the course. The input devices are tested in a flying competition at the end of our course. We have experienced that those students who are attracted by a gadget, in our case the quad-copter and the different input devices, are more willing to spend time on the design and implementation of an application. The plus of personal involvement and increased motivation leads to higher acceptance of the subject. We believe that the success of lectures heavily relies on the preparation and adequate choice of the infrastructure. Students must be able to concentrate on the application design. Therefore a set of well-documented input controller must be chosen and libraries that hide complicated technical details, in our case details about the communication infrastructure. In addition, students need to a have a good level of programming skills to profit from this type of course. (Abstract)

Title: Monitoring Students’ Mobile App Coding Behavior Data Analysis Based on IDE and Browser Interaction Logs

Author(s): Fuchs, Markus (1); Heckner, Markus (2); Raab, Felix (2); Wolff, Christian (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Information Science Group, University of Regensburg, Germany; 2: Media Informatics Group, University of Regensburg, Germany

Presenter(s): Wolff, Christian

Abstract: This paper describes an approach and case study of assessing student’s coding behavior and skills in a realistic development setting. Students had to solve typical programming problems in the context of app development for the Android platform using the Eclipse IDE. Data was analysed using IDE as well as browser interaction logs. In addition, screen recordings of the students interaction with the IDE provides further insight. In this paper we present the first results of our ongoing work.

Title: Student perceptions and attitudes towards the Software Factory as a learning environment

Author(s): Ahmad, Muhammad Ovais; Liukkunen, Kari; Markkula, Jouni

Organisation(s): Department of Information Processing Science, University of Oulu, Finland, Finland

Presenter(s): Ahmad, Muhammad Ovais

Abstract: In company environments, software development is usually accomplished by project teams. Working on these kinds of projects requires many skills that cannot be gained through books or lectures. One solution for teaching the required skills is project-based courses. To facilitate project-based software engineering courses, the Department of Information Processing Science at the University of Oulu, Finland built a Software Factory laboratory (SWF) in 2012. This research describes software engineering student perceptions and explores the factors that affect the SWF as a learning environment. The students’ perceptions of their SWF learning environment were measured by the Computer laboratory Environment Inventory (CLEI) and their attitudes towards Computers a SWF course, were measured by the Attitude towards Computers and Computing Courses Questionnaire (ACCC). Two additional constructs were added: 1) a Kanban board, and 2) Collaborative learning. This was done because working in Oulu SWF is based on Lean thinking and collaborative learning. An online survey was conducted and a statistical descriptive analysis was performed on the responses received from seven SWF project. In line with previous research, the constructs of CLEI and ACCC have affect on the student learning. Furthermore, Kanban approach and collaborative working are important in the SWF concept; and play an important role in the student learning. For academic institutions, SWF will be able to attract a greater number of quality students; and industry will benefits by gaining access to students who have experience in a real world, software development organization upon graduation.This paper is the first step study to examine what factors affect the software engineering students learning in SWF. This study enforces the significance of particular factors that need to be considered when the goal is to increase the student learning and preparing them for the software industry.

Title: Fostering computational thinking in engineering education - challenges, examples, and good practices

Author(s): Gross, Sebastian (1); Mohtadi, Coorous (2); Kim, Mischa (1); Schlosser, Joachim (1); Lluch, Dan (3); Schneider, Dorian (4)

Organisation(s): 1: MathWorks GmbH, Ismaning, Germany; 2: MathWorks Ltd., Cambridge, UK; 3: MathWorks Inc., Natick, MA, USA; 4: Institute of Imaging & Computer Vision, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany

Presenter(s): Gross, Sebastian

Abstract: Computational Thinking is a key requirement for engineering students. The term summarizes a set of skills needed to transform real-life challenges into problems that can be solved with the help of a computer and again to apply computer-based solutions to questions at hand. This mindset is fundamental in almost any engineering task. However, teaching Computational Thinking is a great challenge to educators around the world. Designing and implementing classes, courses, and curricula one has to take an increasing number of arguments into consideration. Progression of today’s technology requires the design, creation, and analysis of increasingly large and complex systems. The working environments as well as tasks demand interdisciplinary teams and vivid communication between involved groups. In designing engineering curricula, these facts need to be considered and the necessary skills must be implicitly or explicitly stimulated. This paper highlights three examples of classes and projects aiming at enabling students to develop and increase Computational Thinking through systematic introduction of computational tools. From these successful study cases, the paper draws six Good Practices and methods for fostering Computational Thinking in engineering education. A discussion of the Good Practices is given and establishes links to the examples. This forms a comprehensible overview of the relationships and simplifies the application of the aforementioned principles to course and curriculum designs.

Title: The Role of Teaching Decision Analysis for Sustainability in Engineering Schools

Author(s): João, Isabel M. (1,2); Quadrado, José C. (1)

Organisation(s): 1: ISEL-Instituto Superior de Engenharia de Lisboa, Portugal; 2: CEG-IST , Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal

Presenter(s): João, Isabel M.

Abstract: This paper discusses teaching decision analysis and its major role in helping engineers, to gain a greater understanding of sustainability issues. There is often the idea that engineers are only involved on the technical elements of the projects, but that is not the case. Engineers are key players in sustainable development and they must recognize and exercise their responsibility in helping to shape the complex society in which we all live. For that reason it is very important that they develop some competences to deal with the complexity of sustainability issues. In this increasingly complex world the decision analysis has a major role to play in helping engineers and any kind of decision makers to gain a greater understanding of the problems they face. The methodology of decision analysis is presented along with its main steps as a basis to make the formalization of decision problems that are to complex for informal use of common sense. An example of teaching decision analysis for sustainability is presented along with the MACBETH socio-technical approach. The students found the M-MACBETH software very user friendly and also realize that working as a group, discussing and exchanging different points of view was a very enriching experience specially due to their different engineering background and also different cultures.

Title: FOSTERING INNOVATION IN ENGINEERING UNDERGRADUATE COURSES IN BRAZIL

Author(s): Valadares, Eduardo de Campos; e Silva Junior, Leonardo Jose

Organisation(s): UFMG, Brazil

Presenter(s): Valadares, Eduardo de Campos

Abstract: Abstract— There is an increasing awareness in South America, especially within MERCOSUL (Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay) and in Chile, of the relevance of fostering innovative and entrepreneurial attitudes in engineering undergraduate courses. In this paper we outline a methodology 1-4 which has been conceived and tested along the last 15 years aimed at providing first and second year undergraduate students with a unique opportunity to map out “real problems” and to develop functional prototypes. It is highlighted the vital importance of exposing students to practical challenges at an earlier stage of their academic life in terms of motivation, thus contributing to decrease drop-outs, besides enhancing self-reliance and fostering creativity. We discuss different strategies adopted by teams of students to find out a problem and to translate it in terms of a feasible solution. Soft skills like the ability to set goals, work as a team, pro-activity, communication skills, networking and bridging technical gaps are an essential part of this approach. In addition, we discuss new strategies to implement an innovation multidisciplinary environment on campus which emulates other programs undertaken elsewhere 5, 6 by adapting and enlarging their scopes taking into account our financial and cultural realities. Several specific examples of projects developed within our program, including devices for helping handicapped people, traffic control systems, and alternative energy sources, among others, are discussed in order to provide a framework for present and future undertakings aimed at revitalizing engineering education, especially in emerging countries. Future developments and unfolding challenges are also addressed to provide a big picture of the complexities involved in fostering innovative thinking in academia. Keywords—innovation environment; undergraduate courses; real problems; practical challenges. [1] E.C. Valadares, 2012 PRECITYE Prize on entrepreneurship and innovation in engineering undergraduate courses, Fundación Universidad Nacional del Sur, Argentina. [2] F. S. F. Rocha, et. al., “Fostering innovation in lab courses targeted at engineering freshmen”, 2006 ASEE Global Colloquium on Engineering Education Conference Proceedings (electronic version), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, October 2006. [3] E.C. Valadares, and A.F. Moreira, “Brazilian experience in fostering open innovation as a strategy to improve pro-active engineering learning and to promote links with industry”, 2008 ASEE Global Colloquium on Engineering Education Conference Proceedings (electronic version), Cape Town, South Africa, October 2008. [4] E. C. Valadares et. al. , “Fostering an innovation environment to improve engineering education in Brazil”, Proceedings of the World Engineering Education Forum (electronic version), Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2012. [5] J.S. Lamancusa, J.L. Zayas, A.L. Soyster, L. Morell, and J. Jorgensen, “The Learning Factory: Industry-Partnered Active Learning”. Journal of Engineerig Education, January 2008, pp. 5-11. [6] M.R. Lightner, L. Carlson, J.F. Sullivan, M.J. Brandemuehl, R.F Reitsma, “A living laboratory”, Proceedings of the IEEE, Vol. 88, Issue: 1, January 2000, pp. 31-40.

Title: Usefulness of information visualizations based on educational data

Author(s): Tervakari, Anne-Maritta; Silius, Kirsi; Koro, Juho; Paukkeri, Jukka; Pirttilä, Olli

Organisation(s): Intelligent Information Systems Laboratory, Tampere University of Technology, Finland

Presenter(s): Tervakari, Anne-Maritta

Abstract: To examine the usefulness of the educational data visualizations from both the teachers' and students' point-of-view in the context of higher education IISLab organized a research study in spring 2013. Five different educational data visualizations were offered to teachers and students in an online learning environment. According to the results of the research study, well designed visualizations of user data can provide valuable insight into student activity and participation for teachers, and thus help evaluate the quality of a course’s instructional design. However, students seemed to need guidance and support for utilizing visualizations to monitor and evaluate their own performance processes.

Title: Towards a Folksonomy Solution to Support Open Educational Activities and Resources in Edu-AREA

Author(s): Caeiro Rodríguez, Manuel (1); Santos Gago, Juan Manuel (1); Llamas Nistal, Martin (1); Lama Penín, Manuel (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Department of Telematic Engineering, Universidade de Vigo, Spain; 2: Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Presenter(s): Caeiro Rodríguez, Manuel

Abstract: Edu-AREA is a Web 2.0 application whose main goal is to contribute to teaching innovation through open educational resources, activities and experiences. AREA provides information in the form of descriptions of educational resources and guidelines of activities that can be used by teachers to create their teaching guides and later to document their classroom experiencies. Teachers can explore the resources, activities, guides and experiences available, select the ones they prefer, create a copy and modify them adapting to their particular teaching context in accordance with a real open approach. At the current stage of the Edu-AREA development, a main issue is related to the management and classification of information provided by users. This paper introduces a folksonomy approach to tackle with this problem and analyses how to apply it in several elements of the Edu-AREA data model. In addition, a general view of the software architecture is provided.

Title: Social Applications in Engineering Education

Author(s): Cerna, Miloslava; Poulova, Petra

Organisation(s): University of Hradec Králové, Czech Republic

Presenter(s): Cerna, Miloslava

Abstract: The contribution brings an insight into the trendy issue of social applications. Brief history and main mission of most widely utilized applications is provided as a technical background to a comparative case-study on awareness and utilization of selected social software applications and willingness to use them in the process of engineering education. The objective of this paper is to present findings gained from the questionnaire investigation followed by semi-directed discussion on the role of social software applications in engineering students´ private and university lives. The survey and discussions were carried out this spring at the Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Králové and at Wroclaw School of Banking.

Title: A Process and a Tool to Assess Vocabulary Learning for Computer Science Engineers

Author(s): Roda-García, José-Luis (1); Rodríguez, Romén (2); López de Vergara Méndez, Alejandro F. (3)

Organisation(s): 1: ETSII, University of La Laguna, Spain; 2: Langproving; 3: ETSII, University of La Laguna, Spain

Presenter(s): Rodríguez, Romén

Abstract: The study that we are presenting in this paper has been conducted with Computer Science Engineering students. We have selected a group of volunteers to use Vocabulary Notebook to acquire specific vocabulary/concepts that are taught in the subjects “Technical English” and “IT Project Management”. In this study we are assessing both the usability of the tool (observing students while using it and extracting conclusions and metrics) and also observing and analyzing the methodology that students apply when it comes to organizing the concepts, by using their own categories, definitions, applying filters and doing self-assessment tests. By the end of the study we will collect this data into a survey and a questionnaire, where we will ask students for feedback about the process and tool. In addition to analyzing the results, by the end of the semester we will also compare the marks obtained by our subject students with the marks of the rest of the class.

Title: An Experimental Study on UML Modeling Errors and their Causes in the Education of Model Driven PLC Programming

Author(s): Duschl, Kerstin Christine; Obermeier, Martin; Vogel-Heuser, Birgit

Organisation(s): Technische Universität München, Germany

Presenter(s): Vogel-Heuser, Birgit

Abstract: Based on previous studies on programming errors and their causes, the presented study examines UML modeling failures in the area of teaching machine and plant automation that were made by 102 mechanical engineering students and analyzes their reasons.

Title: An Industry Sponsored Undergraduate Research (UR) Experience: Preliminary Study on Fulfillment of Program Outcomes and Industry Requirements

Author(s): Kara, Ali; Kapusuz, Kamil Yavuz

Organisation(s): Atilim University, Department of Electrical and Electronics, Ankara, Turkey

Presenter(s): Kara, Ali

Abstract: In engineering education, one of the most significant building blocks is gaining research ability; therefore, undergraduate students should be enrolled research projects as soon as possible during undergraduate educations. For that purpose, in order to enhance undergraduate research culture and improve knowledge of the students, Atilim University has started an undergraduate research program for undergraduate students. The name of the project is Undergraduate Research (UR) Project programs (named LAP as Turkish acronym of undergraduate research project). LAP projects are based on multi-disciplinary team works, mentored or co-mentored by faculty, working over the academic year as either extracurricular activity (LAP-B/C) or a course activity (LAP-A). As a part of the university funding, each student and mentor is paid; furthermore, a budget is allotted to purchasing materials, components, and devices necessary for conducting the project. In addition, the program motivates mentors for finding industrial support, and conduct more industry collaborated LAP projects. As a result of these, collaborations in between university and industry are additionally needed to bring innovations and to develop them.

Title: University-Industry Collaboration Chairs: Initiatives at the Public University of Navarre

Author(s): Sanchis, Pablo; Astrain, David; Lopez-Martin, Antonio; Perez-Artieda, Gurutze; Gubia, Eugenio; Ursua, Alfredo; Barrenechea, Edurne; Matias, Ignacio R.

Organisation(s): Public University of Navarre, Spain

Presenter(s): Sanchis, Pablo

Abstract: In the current context of economic crisis, the university Chairs funded by private companies emerge as useful tools to establish a steady and fruitful collaboration between universities and industry. The activities, configuration and management of the Chairs at the Public University of Navarre (UPNa) are described along the paper. The UPNa Chair for Renewable Energies is shown as a successful initiative, particularly concerning its Engineering Degree Final Project and Master Thesis Program.

Title: Model quality assessment of educational services: Case of educational institutions Zipaquirá - Colombia

Author(s): Medina, Victor Hugo; Gil, José Antonio

Organisation(s): Universidad Distrital, Colombia

Presenter(s): Medina, Victor Hugo

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a study that shows the reality of organizations and educational institutions as evidence warning of the need to improve the quality of education of children and youth from the provinces, taking into account that as over time, these educational organizations become increasingly complex systems. The study allowed us to determine the effects of variables associated with school management, including great significance was determined leadership variable on educational quality. For the application of the proposed model for evaluating the quality of education, we used a sample of 268 teachers in public educational institutions of the town of Zipaquirá in Colombia, who were administered a structured questionnaire based on the adaptation of the quality model EFQM European education. After that, a comprehensive psychometric analysis of the data, through a series of exploratory and confirmatory analysis that included structural equations, which allowed to determine the problem that looms over these institutions. The model quality assessment development of the management of educational organizations, including, among other relevant variables, the satisfaction of its stakeholders (teachers, students, parents and community), the results that the organization provides to the society in which develops and the impact that it has on the products or services that the organization reports.

Title: Application of Remote Experiments in Basic Education through Mobile Devices

Author(s): de Lima, João Paulo Cardoso; Rochadel, Willian; Silva, Akássio Miranda; Simão, José Pedro Schardosim; Silva, Juarez Bento da; Alves, João Bosco da Mota

Organisation(s): Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Brazil

Presenter(s): Silva, Akássio Miranda

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to present aspects related to the experience of developing and deploying of an application directed to the use of remote experimentation in mobile devices and the use of Virtual Learning Environments (VLE) as tools to support teaching and learning. Currently the technological resources have been underutilized in education, and the potential use of mobile devices in education virtually untapped. The internet accessing on smartphones and tablets is part of everyday life of most students, and bringing education closer to the everyday is an effective way to engage their attention. The architecture implemented is to develop a webapp where users can control real experiments and monitor results via streaming video, and providing a sense of immersion like hands-on labs. The app was developed using HTML5, CSS3 and jQuery Mobile, in order to maintain compatibility between the platforms commonly used, like Android, iOS and Windows Phone. Moodle was used as a virtual teaching and learning environment, order to provide fixing activities and assessments. The experiments are automated using features open hardware and open software that facilitate replication for different areas. This model is being applied experimentally in physics classes in the 2nd year high school in a Brazilian public school

Title: Competence Based Interactive Learning with HomeLabKits: experience and work in progress

Author(s): Jaanus, Martin; Umbleja, Kadri; Kukk, Vello; Udal, Andres

Organisation(s): Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia

Presenter(s): Jaanus, Martin

Abstract: This paper describes the implementation and the application experience of learning with the Home Laboratory Kits. HomeLabKit is a small suitcase containing everything needed to perform laboratory exercises in the courses of the electrical engineering. The HomeLabKit has been tested in the real learning process for several years.

Title: Recommender System for Web 2.0 Supported eLearning

Author(s): Holenko Dlab, Martina; Hoić-Božić, Nataša

Organisation(s): University of Rijeka, Croatia

Presenter(s): Holenko Dlab, Martina

Abstract: The paper presents the work-in-progress with the aim to develop recommender system for personalization of activities in e-learning 2.0 environment. The main components of the proposed system are activity, student and group models, and recommender module. Activity model will be used for learning design representation and will include items that could be recommended to students: e-tivities, possible collaborators, tools, and advices. To provide recommendations tailored to the student's and group's characteristics, an important component of the system will include student and group models. The emphasis of the research is on the procedures for assessing the student's (group's) activity level based on the data collected from the third party services (Web 2.0 tools). Student's model will also represent knowledge level and preferences. The recommender module will include original pedagogical rules together with the algorithms that adapt known recommendations techniques to the educational context.

Title: Towards a Social E-Learning Platform for Demanding Users

Author(s): Valtolina, Stefano; Mesiti, Marco; Epifania, Francesco; Apolloni, Bruno

Organisation(s): University of Milano, Italy

Presenter(s): Valtolina, Stefano

Abstract: In this paper we introduce a platform tailored to give teachers and trainers appropriate knowledge, skills, and innovative tools in the domain of the entrepreneurial education. To this end, a social network is created where teachers can formally or informally share experiences supporting their peers with technical training, along with theory and practical examples deriving from mutual and practical experiences in entrepreneurship. In this perspective, the platform through a systematic and intelligent use of metadata is able to offer an innovative social network specially tailored for teachers in order to valorize their competencies and to fit their expectations.

Title: Work in progress – Role of learning strategies in Electrical Circuits and Analog Electronics courses

Author(s): Ramírez Echeverry, Jhon Jairo (1); Olarte, Andres (2); García, Agata (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia; 2: Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia; 3: Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya - BarcelonaTech, España

Presenter(s): Olarte, Andres

Abstract: This work-in-progress describes a study intended to determine whether self-regulated learning strategies influence the academic performance of students from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering at Universidad Nacional de Colombia. This research was conducted with 396 students in two terms, who were surveyed about their use of learning strategies using the CEAM II psychometric tool. Later, it was analyzed whether a significant correlation exists between the scores obtained from the questionnaire and the grades reached in two courses of the engineering curriculum. It was found that some strategies are related to the academic achievement for both courses, whereas other ones influence only one of them. From these results, professors are preparing methods and activities oriented to foster the use of these strategies in order to improve the student academic performance in Electrical Circuits and Analog Electronics courses.

Title: Using Mobile Devices & Social Media in Supporting Engineering Education

Author(s): Khan, Md Munir Hayet; Chiang, Jeffrey Choong Luin

Organisation(s): INTI International University, Malaysia

Presenter(s): Khan, Md Munir Hayet

Abstract: Smart phones are used worldwide due to their enhanced features, such as computing power, increased storage capacity, attractive interface, Wi-Fi connectivity and upload capabilities. These are personal, portable and being increasingly used to assist students’ learning that creates new educational opportunities for students at university. Social media ,on the other hand, has emerged in the last decade as a dominant feature of the technology landscape, especially for our current generation of digital-native students. Leveraging these tools for higher education in general, and engineering education in particular, should be of immediate and pressing concern for educators. This research will investigate how students at university use smart phones with respect to engagement and interaction in various learning activities. It will study how students engage with learning tasks and what social interactions occur when they are trying to achieve their academic goals. Also, the tools/software that supports their academic goals in different learning settings or activities will be considered. This paper shows the background of the research to promote engineering students’ learning curve.

Title: The color of the light: a remote laboratory that uses a smart device that connects teachers and students

Author(s): Carro, German (1); Castro, Manuel (1); Sancristobal, Elio (1); Diaz, Gabriel (1); Mur, Francisco (1); Latorre, Miguel (1); Chaparro, Mercedes (1); López-Rey, Africa (1); Salzmann, Christophe (2); Gillet, Denis (2)

Organisation(s): 1: UNED (Spanish University for Distance Education), Madrid (Spain); 2: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne (Switzerland)

Presenter(s): Sancristobal, Elio

Abstract: Technology surrounds us wherever we look, nonetheless it is necessary to facilitate its use in places where a greater public can enjoy, know and learn with it. Techno Museum and the Go Lab projects are focused on this goal. As a first prototype to bring technology closer to young students and schools, UNED has developed a Smart Arduino based device that facilitates the integration of remote laboratories in learning scenarios. Initially, Arduino was designed for robotics laboratories, but finally decided to expand to other laboratories. The current prototype is called RGB LED: “The color of the light” laboratory. This paper presents its use by teachers and their potential applications as a tool to bring technology to schools and youth people who tomorrow will become engineers, scientists and curious citizens.

Title: Matching learning styles to different type of DSP laboratory experiments

Author(s): Krneta, Radojka; Milošević, Marjan; Damnjanović, Djordje; Milošević, Danijela

Organisation(s): University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Serbia

Presenter(s): Krneta, Radojka

Abstract: Development of the blended learning environment integrating online and hands-on laboratory practices together with learning of theoretical concepts within engineering course in DSP is described in this paper. The student surveys concerning to Kolb’s inventory of learning styles and preferred type of lab exercises are carried out. Survey results were discussed from the point of matching different learning styles with preferred type of DSP lab exercises.

Title: Topical Tapestry: Weaving Threads of Parallel Programming, Computer Graphics, and Artificial Intelligence into Undergraduate CS Courses

Author(s): Wolfer, James

Organisation(s): Indiana University South Bend, United States of America

Presenter(s): Wolfer, James

Abstract: Traditionally, topics such as parallel computing, computer graphics, and artificial intelligence have been taught as stand-alone courses in the computing curriculum. Often these are elective courses, limiting the material to the subset of students choosing to take the course. Recently there has been movement to distribute topics across the curriculum in order to ensure that all graduates have been exposed to concepts such as parallel computing. This work describes one approach to threading topics from AI, graphics, and parallel processing into coursework starting early in a student’s program without substantially altering the basic course objectives. This, in turn, allows the student to sample topics early enough to make informed decisions when selecting electives.

Title: Experimental modelling vs. numerical simulation in geotechnical training

Author(s): Marques, José Couto

Organisation(s): Universidade do Porto - Faculdade de Engenharia, Portugal

Presenter(s): Marques, José Couto

Abstract: Several alternative approaches are currently employed for the control of seepage through the body of embankment dams in order to prevent internal erosion phenomena which might lead to catastrophic failure scenarios. Computer modelling of such structures plays a fundamental role in the design process. The paper presents a number of finite element simulations which provide a clear picture of various embankment dam configurations. This is complemented by the inclusion of the corresponding small scale models.

Title: Wiki as a Knowledge Management Tool at the Multicultural School of Athens

Author(s): Kalagiakos, Panagiotis; Koumpouros, Ioannis

Organisation(s): Hellenic American University, Greece

Presenter(s): Kalagiakos, Panagiotis

Abstract: The Multicultural school of Athens is a rich source of data and knowledge. Wiki is a part of a collection of software tools aiming to increase community collaboration and provide reusable content within our curriculum. Dependence Pedagogy has been proved a valuable approach and our wiki solution presented here contributes to the establishment of the reusability notion as a prerequisite of a successful Dependence Pedagogy environment.

Title: A Model for on-line education of ABET-required professional aspects of engineering

Author(s): Barakat, Nael; Plouff, Christopher

Organisation(s): Grand Valley State University, United States of America

Presenter(s): Barakat, Nael

Abstract: Employability and professional skills formulate a critical part of engineering education. These skills are strongly emphasized through ABET accreditation requirements for engineering programs. Nevertheless, multiple challenges have been realized as engineering educators tried to incorporate those required professional and non-technical skills into their curricula. Some of these challenges are common across all engineering programs, such as the difficulty in implementing professional skills education into a full engineering curriculum, or methods suitable to deliver this education, to name a few. Other challenges can be intrinsic to the topic of professional skills, or locally related to the entity implementing the idea such as quantity, timing, and pedagogy, in comparison to teaching technical topics in engineering. This paper presents the results of implementing an on-line model for ABET-required professional skills education to engineering students. The model was designed to target a combination of challenges, with a built-in continuous improvement mechanism. Assessment data from a pilot-test of the model on a carefully selected sample were collected and used to improve the full implementation of the model across the School of Engineering. Assessment data were collected from the full implementation and analyzed which provided more insight into the challenges facing implementation, and hints towards improving the subsequent offerings, coupled with minor issues related to on-line delivery of the topic. Results confirm most of the common challenges known in this area. However, multiple subtle challenges and issues related to students’ perception, maturity, and context of application, as well as issues related to on-line education suitability for the topic, were revealed. Understanding these findings helped significantly in improving the plan for the next offering of this experience.

Title: A Framework for Designing a Market-Oriented Curriculum for the Degree of Information System Engineering

Author(s): Alkazemi, Basem Yousef

Organisation(s): Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia

Presenter(s): Alkazemi, Basem Yousef

Abstract: Designing a comprehensive curriculum for information system engineering (ISE) that accounts for the needs and expectations of the students, the current trends and advances in the field, and the skills required by the job market is an extremely demanding task. The curriculum must balance the highest academic standards and integrity against the emerging expectations of the market. Here, we identify the specific requirements of a newly commissioned ISE curriculum, and we explain the framework we adopted and developed in the process. We based the framework on a commonly recognized information system model namely service-oriented architecture (SOA). Thus, we derived the different knowledge areas to be covered in the curriculum from the layers of the SOA style.

Title: A Retrospective Course Survey of Graduates to Analyse Competencies in Software Engineering

Author(s): Abke, Jörg (1); Gold, Carolin (1); Sedelmaier, Yvonne (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Applied Sciences Aschaffenburg, Germany; 2: Coburg University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Germany

Presenter(s): Gold, Carolin

Abstract: Through the implementation of the Bologna Process, a strong focus is placed on learning outcomes to emphasize ”competencies, job readiness” [1] and employability of graduates. Courses are intended to provide technical and interdisciplinary (i.e., methodical and self & social) competencies. The professional qualification is predominantly formed by the imparted knowledge, the subject matter. Soft skills are mainly shaped by the format of the course (e.g. ex-cathedra lectures, group work, etc.). In order to get feedback, course evaluations are exploited, which represent the current opinion of the students. At least as important is the consideration of the course from the graduates’ view. Since they are part of the working life, a survey can obtain information about how well the teaching is adjusted to the needs of the labour market and where there are discrepancies. Thus the quality of teaching can be increased in preparation for the working life.

Title: Educational Policies in European Engineering Higher Education System - Implementation of a survey

Author(s): Cojocaru, Dorian (1); Popescu, Dorin (1); Poboroniuc, Marian (2); Ward, Tony (3)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Craiova, Romania; 2: 'Gheorghe Asachi' Technical University of Iasi, Romania; 3: University of York, UK

Presenter(s): Cojocaru, Dorian

Abstract: This paper deals with the problem of identifying the best EU practices regarding higher education policies in the field of engineering. The results are obtained by means of a work package in a Lifelong Learning Program. SALEIE – “Strategic Alignment of Electrical and Information Engineering in European Higher Education Institutions” program started in October 2012 and is ongoing. The paper will present details regarding the design of a specific questionnaire, the data collection by a wide survey and the preliminary analyse of the results. The survey supports the process of identifying the best practice related to the policies implemented in the field of electrical and information engineering in European higher education institutions.

Title: Using App Inventor and LEGO mindstorm NXT in a Summer Camp to attract High School Girls to Computing Fields

Author(s): Al-Khalifa, Hend (1); Al-Humoud, Sarah (2); Al-Razgan, Muna (1); Alfaries, Auhood (1)

Organisation(s): 1: King Saud University, Saudi Arabia; 2: Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University

Presenter(s): Al-Humoud, Sarah

Abstract: With the ever-increasing role played by technological innovations in countries’ development and economic growth, governments and educational institutes are keen to encourage and promote computing and engineering education among its young generations. In a developing country such as Saudi Arabia, we observed a certain knowledge gap in truly comprehending the true essence of computing as a science field. High school computing curriculum mainly tackles training students to use various applications and shallow programming instructions. Consequently, we observed that many college freshmen students chose the computing field (or avoid it) based on the misconception that it is mainly about dealing with Office applications or ‘fixing computers’. To change this misconception and attract students who are in a critical phase of choosing their future path and inform them off why they should consider computing as an option, we organized a two weeks summer camp. The summer camp (http://computing.edu.sa/) focused on two interesting topics among teenagers, namely: mobile technologies and robotics. Accordingly, this paper presents an experience report describing our approach and evaluation from teaching a summer camp for high school girls using App Inventor and LEGO mindstorm NXT. The paper will provide details on how we planned, organized and run the camp. It will also discuss how the camp was advertised to attract high school girls. The challenges we faced and some of our reflections about the camp will also be discussed in the paper. Finally, the paper will analyze our evaluation of the camp, which includes observations of student projects as well as analysis of post questionnaires.

Title: Gender in Engineering Education

Author(s): Pourrat, Yvonne; Béraud, André

Organisation(s): ECEPIE, France

Presenter(s): Béraud, André

Abstract: Two European projects : from understanding to acting Since women’s presence in engineering appears to be a key-issue for European economic and technical development, as well as a central achievement towards gender equality and social justice, it is important to understand why there are so few women in E&T. There are traditionally two reasons put forward: - Technology has a very clear gendered representation, which is a masculine one culturally, symbolically and professionally. - The lack of interdisciplinary subjects in E&T curricula is acting as a foil to potential E&T students, males and females. The first one has been extensively studied over the last twenty years. Hence, the HELENA project (Higher education Leading to Engineering and Scientific careers) focused on the second one. As for the GenderTIME project (Transferring, Implementing, Monitoring Equality), it acts for gender equality in academic and research staffs, for a better gender representation in engineering education. The HELENA research shows that ideas and examples exist for the institutions which have the will to increase the number of women involved in technology. GenderTIME research has identified areas of commonality between different countries institutions: such as developed measures around maternity leave, flexible working arrangements and fewer measures that look address gender equality in recruitment or salaries (this is despite all countries having equal pay legislation in place). It is widely recognized that the future of our societies in Europe depends on the capability we will have to attract some of the more talented students into technology. This problem has to be considered seriously and action has to be taken. Women cannot be absent from the way our future is being shaped.

Title: An Arabic Ontology-based Learning System for Children with Intellectual Challenges

Author(s): Saleh, Moutaz Saleh; Jaam, Jihad Mohamad

Organisation(s): Qatar University, Qatar

Presenter(s): Saleh, Moutaz Saleh

Abstract: Children with intellectual challenges (IC) are growing up with extensive exposure to computer technology. Computer software and assistive devices have the potential to help these children in education, career development, and independent living. However, most of the software, tools and web sites that these children interact with are designed without consideration of their special needs, making these elements less effective or completely inaccessible for them. This paper proposes an assistive education system that dynamically generates multimedia tutorials for children with IC in the state of Qatar. We use several techniques to generate the tutorials which include: Arabic text processing, entities relationship extraction, multimedia-based ontology, and online retrieval of multimedia contents. The main aim of our system is to enhance those children learning capabilities, understanding, communications, thinking and memorization skills through multimedia.

Title: Pirus: A File Storage Service in Cloud Computing for Educational Use

Author(s): Kallergis, Dimitrios (1); Chimos, Konstantinos (1); Vizikidis, Stefanos (1); Karvounidis, Theodoros (1); Basios, Michael (2); Douligeris, Christos (1)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Piraeus, Greece; 2: University of Edinburgh

Presenter(s): Kallergis, Dimitrios

Abstract: This paper describes a new File Hosting Service for e-learning platforms with Object Oriented Logic in Cloud Computing that has been recently developed. The service will be used by the academic community of the University of Piraeus giving users the ability to remotely store and access their personal files with no security compromises. The service also offers the administrators the ability to manage users and roles. The primary objective was to deliver a fully operational service, using state-of-the-art programming new techniques to enable scalability and future development of the existing functionality. The secondary objective was to deploy a plug n’ play environment, enforcing the capabilities of an existing e-learning application. Thus, the administrators may have the option to secure the use and availability of the environment; as for the users, they may taste full flexibility, availability, as well as software agnostic access. The use of technologies such as .NET Framework, C# programming language, CSS and jQuery, MSSQL for database hosting and the support of Virtualization and Cloud Computing will contribute significantly in compatibility, code reuse, reliability and reduce of maintenance costs and resources. The service was installed and tested in a controlled environment to ascertain the required functionality and the offered reliability and safety with complete success. The technologies used and supported, allow future work in upgrading and extending the service. Changes and improvements, in hardware and software, in order to convert the service to a SaaS (Software as a Service) Cloud application is a logical step in order to efficiently offer the service to a wider academic community. Improved and added functionality offered by further development will leverage the user’s experience. Our purpose is to test the application in existing environments, such as Moodle, e-Front, etc. in order to implement real modules’ processes at the University of Piraeus and at the Technological Educational Institute of Piraeus. The future step is to introduce a new assembly of the learning process; using innovative statistic processes as well as improving the existing tools that are currently being used. Finally, we evaluate the technological e-learning method with our new beta L.R.M. Java-based tool. From the educational perspective a quick list of advantages of the aforementioned service that would be especially useful for both students and educators include facilitation and enhancement in back up, storage and accessibility. It will also include enhancement of collaboration since it allows multiple users to work on and edit documents at the same time, which in tern enables effortless sharing and transmission of ideas. With this service, group projects and or collaborative lesson plans can be optimized for both teachers and students. Finally it will sharpen resource and time conscious, as with the availability of content online it is no longer necessary for teachers to spend time and resources printing or copying lengthy documents or lesson plans. Students will be able to access homework assignments, lesson notes, and other materials online in an enhance way offered by the service.

Title: ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ENGINEERING FIELD: IMPLEMENTATION AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Author(s): Md Zain, Shahrom

Organisation(s): Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia

Presenter(s): Md Zain, Shahrom

Abstract: UKM Lestari and UKM towards zero waste campus are two programs that drive Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to adopt the concept of sustainability in the management, administration, education, research, development and daily practice of the campus community by the year 2020. In this respect, education is an important component that could influence and shape the practice and culture of loving the environment. Based on the needs of education on environment and sustainable development (ESD) particularly in the engineering field, efforts are made to see how far the education system has been implemented in accordance to the ESD concept. This paper highlights the need to review the various components of ESD in the teaching and learning at undergraduate level within the Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment (FKAB), UKM with the aims of improving ESD education. Each engineering program has one program outcomes (PO) for ESD component. Based on the courses offered it is shown that more ESD components taught in Degree Program of Civil & Environmental Engineering. However there is no specific course on sustainable development, and this require further study to see the importance of this course in all academic programs at FKAB. Environmental elements in the field of engineering education shall be formally provided to the students to enable them to understand the overall concept of environmental conservation, protection and enhancement. In this respect, the appreciation on the complexities and interconnectivity of the various environmental component shall ensure decisions and actions taken in all engineering undertaking shall put the interest of environmental sustainable as paramount.

Title: Engineering Education: Time to Reform the Fragmented, Content-Overloaded Curricula

Author(s): Ktoridou, Despo; Eteokleous, Nikleia

Organisation(s): University of Nicosia, Cyprus

Presenter(s): Ktoridou, Despo

Abstract: Higher education institutions reflect society’s needs and influence people’s decisions toward education and career paths [1]. Curriculum is supporting the entire educational process as a means to achieve the aims of teaching and learning that are dynamic and evolve according to changing social and economic requirements. Today, university students need to develop and apply a set of key competences and relevant job-specific skills which cannot be acquired through fragmented, content-overloaded curricula that are far removed from real life and the demands of the workplace [2]. The current work is a theoretical paper discusses engineering curriculum reform developments at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus aiming to prepare future engineers to work in a developing social, economic, and political context.

Title: Multiple-choice Testing: Knowledge, or Random Choice?

Author(s): Simonova, Ivana

Organisation(s): University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic

Presenter(s): Simonova, Ivana

Abstract: The paper deals with the problem of random choice of answers in multiole-choice tests. The presented research provides comparison of multiple-choice and open-answer test scores in the field of English grammar. The research sample consisted of 295 participants – students of the Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic. Data were processed by the method of multiple regression and results proved slightly higher, not significant, test scores in the multiple-choice tests.

Title: Programming literacy level needed for modern teachers: fragile border between content creator and a programmer

Author(s): Titov, Igor (1); Kulmamirov, Serik (2); Titov, Evgeny (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Bauman Moscow State Technical University (BMSTU), Russian Federation; 2: L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU), Kazakhstan; 3: Moscow Metropolitan Governance University (MMGU), Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Titov, Igor

Abstract: Modern engineering education is to a great extent bound to computers and software. It is used extensively in all areas and modern teachers often need to go beyond simple software usage scenarios such as presenting slides and showing video. This is especially true for blended and e-learning. But these new perspectives also present steep learning curves in a form of programming technologies. Creating interactive content today requires programming and software engineering skills which are usually not a strong point for most of educators. This paper presents levels of interactive content generation skills, analyzes available options and lists some of the existing programming courses specifically created for teachers. It is argued that teachers should become the first programming literate people in this century.

Title: A 360-degree Evaluation Framework for Doctoral Education

Author(s): Calatrava Moreno, María del Carmen

Organisation(s): Vienna University of Technology, Austria

Presenter(s): Calatrava Moreno, María del Carmen

Abstract: Due to increasing international competitiveness, higher education institutions face the need to assess and enhance the quality of their activities. Usually, industrial quality management models are employed, which successfully assess administrative functions but fail to address educational processes. In this paper we present an assessment framework that overcomes the shortcomings of existing quality evaluation models. Inspired by the 360-degree feedback, we collect the perceptions of the individuals related to an educational program. Furthermore, with the introduction of a dual-scale assessment, we enable stakeholders to judge not only the fulfillment of each criterion but also its relevance. Together with the self-definition of the program, this allows the validation of the program’s objectives, as well as quality assessments with a focus on both the program’s and the stakeholders’ priorities. We provide a formal definition, a set of quality criteria and a categorization of the relevant stakeholders for the assessment of doctoral programs in Computer Science. Furthermore, we present the analytical methods for the weighting and aggregation of information.

Title: IEEE Direct to Student Program (D2S) : Changing dynamics between education and innovation

Author(s): Usop, Kauthar (1); Mandal, Subhamoy (2); Ong, Rainier (3); Gonzalez, Emmanuel (1); Reilly, Rob (4)

Organisation(s): 1: De La Salle University Manila, Philippines; 2: Technische Universität München, Germany; 3: Inkwise, Philippines; 4: MIT Media Labs, USA

Presenter(s): Mandal, Subhamoy

Abstract: Most of the developing countries, suffer from a gap margin between the uneducated youth and the very few that made it to college. Our goal in this program is to try to lessen the gap by involving both college students, high school students and even drop outs. We aim to innovate together,so to empower“rural and urban informal sector youth” to address district problems via frugal engineering innovations. The implementation of this program is done through seminar and awareness lectures, hands- on- projects and exhibition of their developed solutions. The first pilot of the program is launched in Philippines, and will be rolled out in newer geographies based on the initial observations and outcome of the pilot study.

Title: Inclusion of teaching on self-awareness, diversity and reflection to support an engineering curriculum augmented with problem and scenario-based learning: A work in progress

Author(s): Tilley, Emanuela (1); Peters, Jan (2); Mitchell, John (1)

Organisation(s): 1: Integrated Engineering Programme, University College London, United Kingdom; 2: Katalytik

Presenter(s): Tilley, Emanuela

Abstract: There is evidence that academic institutions in the engineering education community are starting to address the growing concerns that engineering education is not progressing to meet a global need for engineering graduates who supplement their good academic performance record with high level analytical and critical thinking skills, communication and teamwork skills and a sound understanding of engineering and business practice. At University College London (UCL), in the United Kingdom, steps are being taken to revolutionize and rejuvenate its approach to teaching engineering and commit to an integrated engineering programme created in part to soothe the current distresses of its industry partners. The Integrated Engineering Programme (IEP) at UCL is on course to commence across the faculty via the complete Year 1 engineering student cohort at the start of the 2014 autumn term and pilot projects are currently being rolled out to test, develop and refine the IEP’s key aspects of the prior to its official launch next year. Embedding a supplementary teaching programme aimed at offering engineering students the opportunity to increase their self-awareness and assess their personal strengths into undergraduate engineering curricula is just one of the innovative approaches of the IEP. Gallup’s StrengthsFinder2.0 is an online tool that is currently being explored to facilitate such an approach. The strengths based personal profiling and self-assessment tool introduces the students to the benefits of being self-aware and a means of working better in teams, understanding the type of engineering activity they enjoy and can excel in and realizing their unique potential to successfully take on leadership roles, perhaps even seek opportunities to take ‘leadership beyond authority’. A university level teaching environment based on problem based learning where the students are initially introduced to the fundamental elements of engineering design and thinking, successfully working in teams, effective communication and professional practice prior to partaking in engineering scenarios is an effective strategy to address the growing need for high performing engineering graduates with a well-rounded set of skills. The outcome is strengthened when this method of teaching is supported by a program to help students’ identify, fully explore, utilize and develop their natural talents and personal strengths throughout their engineering education prior to graduation. Through such an exercise, students become familiar with a common language and develop a heightened awareness of each other’s potential to contribute to the team’s goals that in turn also helps them deal with and possibly limit the occurrence of problems associated with leadership and assignment of roles, communication, time management, and division of responsibility often experienced when working in teams.

Title: Stakeholders-oriented Quality of Education Assurance System for successful institutional accreditation

Author(s): Moscinska, Katarzyna

Organisation(s): Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland, Poland

Presenter(s): Moscinska, Katarzyna

Abstract: Abstract — Faculty of Automatic Control, Electronics and Computer Science (AEC), Silesian University of Technology, Poland, is widely recognised as one of the leading polish Higher Education Institution (HEI) units. Recently, the institutional accreditation by the main national accreditation board – Polish Accreditation Council [1, 2] – confirmed the highest teaching standards at the faculty. A significant part of assessment was based on the Faculty Quality of Education Assurance System (FQEAS) performance. In the paper the faculty development strategy and structure of FQEAS will be presented. The assessment criteria will be discussed and the role of quality assurance system will be indicated. Future work with respect to teaching quality improvement, as well as FQEAS development, will be described. The properties of the presented FQEAS can be easily adopted in other national higher education systems.

Title: ALLES ING! Count me in! Attracting human talents in providing open access to universities with focusing on individual opportunities in engineering sciences

Author(s): Janssen, Theresa; Zeuch, Mark; Petermann, Marcus; Kilzer, Andreas

Organisation(s): Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Germany

Presenter(s): Janssen, Theresa

Abstract: In higher engineering education of the 21st century, it is necessary to “go with the times” and make use of many and varied ways when it comes to attracting young talents for technical studies. Despite an increasing demand for technically educated academics, caused among others by demographic developments and an increasingly dynamic labor market, the number of enrolments is stagnating [1]. A general skills shortage and high drop-out rates during the first semesters of engineering studies underline the difficulty [2]. Therefore, universities should open up for new potential target groups and to new ways of communication in the long run, thus meeting the students’ changing demands for information [3]. For in an interconnected media society such as ours, they are regularly confronted with a variety of information, competing for their attention [4]. Especially technical fields of study are confronted with the challenge of presenting matter-of-fact technical contents in a vivid way and from a personal perspective, in order to speak the language of those interested and increasing possibilities of identification with the subject of study, providing technology with a “human face”. At the Ruhr Universität Bochum [5], the engineering faculties decided to start an offensive: They give an insight into “Who we are and what we are doing” in the framework of their new, joint initiative “ALLES ING!”. In this endeavor, the faculties for Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering and Information Technology present themselves with a shared “business card” to the public beyond, as well as within the university. The initiative was realized among others by the Project ELLI – Excellent Teaching and Learning in Engineering Science [6] and is especially pursuing the goal of attracting non-traditional students for technical fields of study. Role models from technology and science are applied in order to establish a higher identification with technical topics and fields of work. ALLES ING! Makes use of the varied possibilities of the smartphone age and places emphasis on a variety of media. In a new internet portal, which makes use of manifold ways of presentation, students and employees in engineering science report on their typical working day, a stay abroad or their research topic, or also on the start of their professional career. On their profile pages, they get into a direct exchange with potential students and other people interested via videos, interviews, or short messages. A series of events called “ALLES ING! Live” accompanies the web offer, which is especially directed to an interested public from the region and relates technology to socially relevant topics. This work in progress documents the concept and development of “ALLES ING!” as a means of attracting human talent for engineering education, as well as the challenges and opportunities that still lie ahead.

Title: Unified, Multiple Target, Computer Engineering Learning Platform

Author(s): Žagar, Martin; Frid, Nikolina; Knezović, Josip; Hofman, Daniel; Kovač, Mario; Sruk, Vlado; Mlinarić, Hrvoje

Organisation(s): University of Zagreb, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, Croatia

Presenter(s): Žagar, Martin

Abstract: Embedded systems are the invisible electronics and corresponding software that bring intelligence to objects, processes and devices. The main challenge in engineering education for embedded systems at university level is a complex and multidisciplinary approach which includes understanding of various systems based on different technologies and system solution optimizations. We challenge the traditional education of engineers in embedded systems design through real-time experiments that stimulate curiosity with ultimate goal to support students to understand and construct their personal conceptual knowledge based on experiments.

Title: An Enhanced Bayesian Network Model for Prediction of Students’ Academic Performance in Engineering Programs

Author(s): Sharabiani, Ashkan; Sharabiani, Anooshiravan; Karim, Fazle; Atanasov, Mariya; Darabi, Houshang

Organisation(s): University of Illinois at Chicago, United States of America

Presenter(s): Sharabiani, Ashkan

Abstract: Predicting students’ academic performance (SAP) provides invaluable information for educational institutes’ authorities. This information offers numerous opportunities for instructors and decision makers to improve their quality of services and consequently help the students to succeed in their education. In this paper, we introduce a prediction model to forecast the SAP of the Engineering students. The model is based on the Bayesian networks framework. The model is constructed using a database of the undergraduate engineering students at University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). The specific objective of this model is to predict the students’ grades in three major courses which most of the students take in their second semester. The grades in these courses have major impact on students’ retention rates as many students receive low grades in them. Therefore, predicting students’ grades in these courses can be used to identify the students who might receive low grades and hence need extra help from the educational authorities. The proposed model has been tested against the conventional models which have been proposed in the literature and it is proven to outperform them in grade prediction.

Title: Transition in Student Motivation during a Scratch and an App Inventor course (Work in Progress)

Author(s): Nikou, Stavros; Economides, Anastasios

Organisation(s): University of Macedonia, Greece

Presenter(s): Nikou, Stavros

Abstract: Considering the declining enrolling in computing fields and the increasing demand in STEM disciplines, innovative methods should be employed to attract students in computing disciplines. MIT Scratch and App Inventor for Android visual programming environments are two such approaches. This is a comparative study to investigate any differences in the transition of students’ motivation to learn programming using Scratch and App Inventor for Android in K-12 educational settings. Intrinsic goal orientation, task value, control of learning beliefs and self efficacy were found to be increased using these two initial learning programming environments from the beginning to the middle of the course. No effect on extrinsic motivation was found. Evaluating the transition in motivation throughout the whole course period for both environments (work in progress) will have an impact on educators to retain students’ interest in programming and improve their attitudes towards computing.

Title: Volition-driven Adaption - Following the individual Goals of Engineers in E-Learning Processes

Author(s): Heimbuch, Alexander; Saul, Christian; Lucht, Martina

Organisation(s): Fraunhofer-Institute for Digital Media Technology, Germany

Presenter(s): Lucht, Martina

Abstract: Today’s adaptive e-learning applications mostly focus on the presentation of content according to users’ knowledge. The authors discuss the relevance of learners’ individual needs and goals in the learning process called as volition. Furthermore, the paper describes a research process that a) develops a tool to empirically evaluate and define relevant gratifications that engineers motivate to learn, b) defines abstract concepts for these gratifications to c) develop style guides for user modeling based on users volition.

Title: Augmented Reality to Improve STEM Motivation

Author(s): Restivo, Maria Teresa (1); Chouzal, Fátima (2); Rodrigues, José (3); Menezes, Paulo (4); Lopes, J. Bernardino (5)

Organisation(s): 1: IDMEC-FEUP, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Portugal; 2: IDMEC-FEUP, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Portugal; 3: IDMEC-FEUP, Faculdade de Engenharia, Universidade do Porto, Portugal; 4: Instituto de Sistemas e Robótica Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal; 5: CIDTFF – Research Centre "Didatics and Technology in Education of Trainers" and Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto-Douro, Portugal

Presenter(s): Restivo, Maria Teresa

Abstract: This paper presents an exploratory study about educational potentialities of an augmented reality (AR) application developed for DC circuit fundamentals. Particularly the study aims to characterize student involvement using the application as well as its use as an additional experimental tool and to characterize how students perceive their experience and their learning through the use of this AR application. It is also briefly described how this application was developed and how the exploratory study was implemented involving STEM students. The AR application confirmed to be manageable and students have explored its configurations intuitively. Additionally, the AR tool usability according to our preliminary results showed to be effective for the AR developed application purposes, has induced student satisfaction and revealed very good student perceptions about learning perspectives. So, this study showed this AR application for DC circuits has a great educational potential.

Title: Using the ChipKIT to apply a novel concept for configuring embedded online labs

Author(s): Deaky, Bogdan-Alexandru (1); Parv, Luminita (2); Faustino Andrade, Tiago (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Bluemind Software / Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania; 2: Transilvania University of Brasov, Romania; 3: UISPA IDMEC - FEUP Porto, Portugal

Presenter(s): Deaky, Bogdan-Alexandru

Abstract: The usage of embedded online laboratories is frequent nowadays, because these include both the data acquisition and webserver functionality. This results in smaller implementation costs and other advantages. However, the local configuration and control of the embedded laboratory is challenging, because of the lack of peripheral devices (as the keyboard is to a PC). A novel concept for configuring embedded online laboratories (using an Android smartphone) was introduced in September at exp.at'13, in Portugal. This paper presents an implementation of this concept using the chipKIT Max32 prototyping platform. It focuses on several aspects including the challenges faced in order to achieve USB communication between the Android mobile device and the chipKIT Max32.

Title: Development of Information System for Students’ Project Activity Management

Author(s): Gulyaeva, Kseniya; Mozgaleva, Polina; Zamyatina, Oxana

Organisation(s): Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Gulyaeva, Kseniya

Abstract: Project activity is a tool for shaping students mobile and marketable personality. Including modern technologies into the design of project management activities is a promising approach and allows to make the process interesting for the student. This article includes the development of an information system accompanying the process of carrying out project activities by the students, based on the current Internet resources analysis and test system design.

Title: Computer Simulation at School: Scratch and Programming Language Choosing Criteria

Author(s): Djenjer, Vadim O.

Organisation(s): Orenburg State Pedagogical University, Russian Federation

Presenter(s): Djenjer, Vadim O.

Abstract: The paper discusses the problem of choosing and using a programming language for computer simulations at school. Some possible criteria to be met by the programming language for school are considered and some of the considerations of teaching programming language Scratch at school are debated.

Title: Maintaining Quality of Software Engineering Education by a Shared Repository of Course Materials in a Multilateral Setting

Author(s): Bothe, Klaus (1); ‪Budimac, Zoran (2); Putnik, Zoran (2); Ivanovic, Mirjana (2); Cico, Betim (3); ‪Stoyanov, Stanimir (4); ‪Zdravkova, Katerina (5); Stoyanova-Doyceva, Asya (4); Jakimovski, Boro (5); Jurca, Ioan (6); Nocovic, Novica (7); ‪Kalpic, Damir (8)

Organisation(s): 1: Humboldt University Berlin, Germany; 2: University of Novi Sad, Institute of Mathematics and Informatics, Novi Sad, Serbia; 3: Polytechnic University Tirana, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Tirana, Albania; 4: University “Paisii Hilendarski”, Institute of Informatics; 5: University "Sts. Cyril and Methodius", Institute of Informatics, Skopje, FYR Macedonia; 6: Technical University Timisoara, Institute of Informatics, Timisoara, Romania; 7: University of Sarajevo, Dept. of Computer Science, Bosnia and Herzegovina; 8: University of Zagreb, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing, Zagreb, Croatia

Presenter(s): Bothe, Klaus

Abstract: Developing teaching materials is a time-consuming and expensive activity. Thus, over the years, several consortia have created joint materials to benefit from them. It is expected that shared teaching materials are a means to save effort in its development, to transfer methodological and technical knowledge between different university staff, and to exchange experience in practical application. However, does it really pay off considering the diversity of different educational environments and the difficulties of using externally produced materials, rather than dedicated individual ones? This paper reports on the experience gained in a multi-country project. Both success factors and problems are outlined. It turned out that sharing an educational repository by several partners supports maintaining quality of teaching materials by joint efforts and distributed contributions.

Title: Software Engineering Body of Skills (SWEBOS)

Author(s): Sedelmaier, Yvonne; Landes, Dieter

Organisation(s): University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Germany

Presenter(s): Sedelmaier, Yvonne

Abstract: In the paper, we will present a description framework for non-technical skills that covers various degrees of abstraction, an alternative data-driven approach to fill the framework with contents which is based on Grounded Theory, and finally preliminary results with respect to a “Software Engineering Body of Skills”, i.e. a prioritized account and characterization of non-technical skills that are specifically instantiated with respect to the domain of software engineering. As a consequence of our findings, we shall argue that it is reasonable to distinguish generic non-technical skills, such as presentation skills, from context-sensitive non-technical skills that exhibit a special flavor in software engineering and in conjunction with specific technical skills.

Title: Motivating Computer Science Students by Facilitating Inderdisciplinary Educational Activities

Author(s): Mavridis, Apostolos; Tsiatsos, Thrasyvoulos G.

Organisation(s): Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Presenter(s): Tsiatsos, Thrasyvoulos G.

Abstract: The purpose of this paper was the use of a configurable game for the internalization of learning in terms of collaboration between two universities (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki-AUTH and St. Petersburg State Polytechnic University-SPSPU) of different disciplines (AUTH: Computer Science and SPSPU: Marketing) and from different countries (AUTH: Greece and SPSPU: Russia) in the context of EICL (E-Internationalization for Collaborative Learning) project. The main goal of this collaboration was to motivate computer science students to support a real educational activity in a professional way and to engage the SPSPU students in the learning process using a game activity. The evaluation methodology was focused on users’ satisfaction, intension - purpose and stance towards the game activity. The preliminary results of the evaluation were promising and revealed that there is a great interest from the side of the learners towards the use of games in the learning process. We can therefore deduce that the expertise of computer science engineers can facilitate the integration of game based learning activities in other fields of education.

Title: Capstone Design Projects in the Environment of Weak Industry-Academia Interaction

Author(s): Al-Bahi, Ali M.; Taha, Mahmoud A.; Turkmen, Nedim

Organisation(s): King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia

Presenter(s): Al-Bahi, Ali M.

Abstract: ABET requirements for a major design experience that prepares the students for engineering practice is normally satisfied through capstone projects originating from and sponsored by the local industry. This is difficult to be satisfied in an environment of weak industry academia interaction. In this case the projects are coming from academically oriented faculty members with limited industrial experience resulting in research type projects. The present work describes a process implemented to ensure that capstone projects satisfy the requirements for a major design experience based on the knowledge and skills acquired in earlier course work and incorporating appropriate engineering standards and multiple realistic constraints. The students are guided by an experienced faculty member (projects coordinator) to work in teams in an industry simulated environment. They apply modern engineering tools and project management techniques and communicate the details of their design both orally and in writing and prepare necessary documentations. The owner of the project proposal acts as a client and a technical advisor/consultant. As the project advances in time the role of the advisor intensifies and becomes fully involved with the students in the implementation phase. The role of the project coordinator remains to ensure that the work is a students’ project advised by the faculty and not a faculty work assisted by the students.

Title: 3D Visualization to Aid Engineering Education: A Case Study to Visualize the Impact of Wireless Signals on Human Brain

Author(s): Nasir, Adnan; Sheharyar, Ali; Shakir, Muhammad Zeeshan; Qaraqe, Khalid; Bouhali, Othmane

Organisation(s): Texas A&M University at Qatar, Qatar

Presenter(s): Shakir, Muhammad Zeeshan

Abstract: Scientific 3D visualization offers the ability to extract important information hidden within the data by taking advantage of the natural ability of the human visual system and the brain to aid understanding of the engineering problems and systems. On September 2008 Texas AM University at Qatar (TAMUQ) acquired its powerful 3D Immersive Visualization Facility (IVF), which aids engineering students, researchers and faculty in understanding their data and presenting the results of their endeavors in non-traditional ways. The Research computing at TAMUQ regularly organizes scientific 3D visualization development competitions every year. The goal is to raise awareness of the benefits of visualization to teaching and research activities in engineering. In particular, this can be considered as an opportunity for the students to learn some of the most up-to-date visualization techniques available in TAMUQ’s IVF. The competition proved to be a catalyst for other engineering and science universities and researchers with a growing interest in adopting 3D visualization techniques for teaching and learning activities especially for engineering students.

Title: Modelling potential foreign applicant flow: Case of Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences

Author(s): Nīlanders, Kārlis; Cakula, Sarma

Organisation(s): Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia

Presenter(s): Cakula, Sarma

Abstract: With ever lower enrolment rates and a call for internationalisation from National and European Union institutions, recruitment of foreign students might be the only feasible strategy for many universities to survive and advance. However such attempts by Latvia and individual Higher Education Institutions (among them Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences) have largely been unsuccessful. Research paper describes an imitations model that could help to better analyze current efforts and provide clues to what actions and strategies should be undertaken to improve the odds of attracting more international students. Such model constructed in ISEE systems Stella Modelling & Simulation Software would be governed by criteria derived from literature studies and verified by student mobility and recruitment professionals from 5 different European universities. Imitation model will help also for other HEIs from Latvia and other countries to analyze their current efforts to attract foreign students and develop new strategies.

Title: The insertion on the labor world: From Theory to Praxis.

Author(s): Goicoechea Castaño, Itziar; Patiño Cambeiro, Faustino; Fenollera Bolibar, Maria; Patiño Barbeito, Faustino; Rodriguez Rodriguez, Francisco

Organisation(s): universidad de vigo, Spain

Presenter(s): Goicoechea Castaño, Itziar

Abstract: During several decades, in Spain, the schools of engineering have formed numerous engineers, with a great technical capacity but without any type of professional experience, an also any real contact with the Industry. By their chance, it is their insertion in the labor world. Due to the crisis that exists currently in Spain and also in different countries worldwide, even it is more difficult that these postgraduates can acquire their first labor contact at the industry. From the Group of Investigation INARdesign belonging to the School of Industrial Engineering at the University of Vigo, we have taken part in a research project and we have developed an education model consisting on the implantation of a fundamentally agile and coordinated system, through a system of counselors or tutors, between the postgraduate, the university, the employment and also the industry, and their synchronized actions facilitates the incorporation of Postgraduates into the labor world. It seems to be logical that the University, cradle of these postgraduates, which has dedicated so much time to his education, give one more step and assumes a new challenge: the link between University and the Industry. This, likewise, is going to allow to the University to have a feedback of the new requirements of the industrial market and to know and improve his priority functions: the education of the student and the research projects. After different examples of implementation of this model and also setting in practice this mentioned model, we try in this new research, to advance this first contact with the professional world already in his stage of last course, just when they have to do a final project at the end of their career. We have considered to think about the model developed in our previous research: Counselors - Tutor (University - Industry) and create a new model, in which Students can take advantage and feel this professional experience and can develop it in their final project, still being Students and still be linked to the University. This means and supposes to be an improvement in his Curriculum and likewise an improvement in his personal competences or skills In order to do this, we plan the creation of these tutors - counselors, inside the University and in touch with the Technical Office of the own University and we try to develop a model of collaboration between Students and Technical Office who facilitates this first contact of the students with the daily problems of the labor world. Once developed this new model, it has been put into practice across several pilot experiences in order to validate it. For this, we have proposed several lines of actuation according to the Technical Office, related to topics as such as important as the energy efficiency of buildings, acoustics conditions, and so on.

Title: A Course for Teaching Integrated System Design to Computer Engineering Students

Author(s): Zualkernan, Imran

Organisation(s): American University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Presenter(s): Zualkernan, Imran

Abstract: I. INTRODUCTION Over 200 Universities in the United States offered an ABET accredited Bachelors program in Computer Engineering (CE). According to the most current IEEE/CS curriculum guidelines, a Computer Engineer “…Possess(es) the ability to design computers and computer-based systems that include both hardware and software to solve novel engineering problems…” pp. 5 [1]. Due to this interdisciplinary nature, CE offers unique challenges to educators. This paper describes experiences in implementing a course that teaches integrated system design to CE students in an ABET-accredited CE program at an American University. II. COURSE DESIGN The course is a 2 credit (1-2-3) junior-level hands-on course where students attend one hourly lecture and a three hour lab every week. The students are expected to learn software design patterns (using Java), embedded programming using C, interfacing with and building simple sensors (temperature, pressure, accelerometers, RFID, motion etc.), wireless networking (Zigbee), and to design and implement a team project. One unique aspect of the course is the use of off-the-shelf microcontrollers and sensors originally designed for hobbyists [2]. Each course project must: 1) incorporate physical sensors, actuators and wireless networking; 2) require multi-threading, and appropriate use of software design patterns (e.g., observer pattern); 3) use physical building skills like soldering, etc., and 4) be based on topics of intrinsic interest to students (e.g., games, music and dance). The completed system must be documented using the UML notation. Table I shows sample projects for the last five terms which all involved building physical artifacts,sensors, microcontrollers and Zibee networking. In many instances students also used Java libraries to play videos, and to synthesize music. TABLE I. SAMPLE PROJECTS FROM EACH TERM Term Sample Course Project(s) Spring 2011 Tangible Tic-Tac-Toe game Fall 2011 Basketball with RFID balls Spring 2012 The Wireless Air Drum Fall 2012 Wireless Laser Harp, Tapping Wireless Shoes. Spring 2013 Musical Juggling balls, Physical Angry Bird III. EVALUATION Each semester the course was evaluated based on direct and indirect measures. For example, Table II shows the percentage of students who “Strongly agreed” or “Agreed” that they were able to achieve the learning outcome of “Using Software Design Patterns.” Table II also shows the corresponding exam scores on programming questions that directly measured students’ ability to apply and implement software design patterns in a system. TABLE II. ASSESSMENT OF ONE LEARNING OUTCOME Term Strongly Agree Agree Total Exam Score (/100) (stdev) Spring 2011 70.00% 20.00% 90.00% 79.92 (9.79) Fall 2011 40.00% 53.33% 93.33% 72 (12) Spring 2012 57.89% 36.84% 94.74% 79.8 (13.12) Fall 2012 69.23% 23.08% 92.31% 62 (15) Spring 2013 55.56% 33.33% 88.89% 65.7 (18.46) REFERENCES [1] Curriculum Guidelines for Undergraduate Degree Programs in Computer Engineering: A Report in the Computing Curricula Series, The Joint Task Force on Computing Curricula, IEEE Computer Society and Association for Computing Machinery, 2004. [2] L. Buechley and M. Eisenberg, “The LilyPad Arduino:Toward Wearable Engineering for Everyone,” Pervasive Computing, pp. 12-15, April-June, 2008.

Title: Payload Development and Launch of a Stratosphere Balloon Mission

Author(s): Altmann, Andreas; Birkner, Wolfgang; Häckl, Franz Xaver; Hanner, Christopher; Liebhart, Peter; Metschl, Samuel; Weck, Florian; Farmbauer, Michael; Heiß, Manfred; Cuno, Hans-Hellmuth; Fuhrmann, Thomas; Mandl, Roland; Mottok, Jürgen; Niemetz, Michael

Organisation(s): OTH Regensburg, Germany

Presenter(s): Niemetz, Michael

Abstract: During a student project a stratosphere balloon was developed and launched. This project included the definition of the parameters of the balloon and the scientific instruments for performing atmosphere measurements, the development of all mechanical and electronic parts, the administration of the project as well as the management tasks related to the balloon launch. The main challenge for the students was the high complexity of the project due to tasks involving many different knowledge domains and the long project duration since the initial definition until the launch.

Title: Preparatory Mathematics Course for Non-Traditional Engineering Students

Author(s): Kälberer, Nina; Böhmer, Cornelia; Tschirpke, Katrin; Beck-Meuth, Eva Maria

Organisation(s): Hochschule Aschaffenburg, Germany

Presenter(s): Kälberer, Nina

Abstract: This paper reports the concept of a preparatory mathematics course for non-traditional students in electrical engineering. The blended-learning course is part of the initial study phase smoothing the transition to learning at university level. The instructional design of the preparatory course is aligned with that of the Bachelor's study program. However, it takes place prior to the beginning of the first semester. The initial phase additionally encompasses the whole first semester with different courses meant to help students getting ready for studying. Prospective students indicated that they needed to refresh their knowledge in mathematics. Thus, a preparatory mathematics course was given priority. This course serves several purposes: Students get an impression of the requirements in mathematics necessary for the study program; they refresh their basic knowledge; they make themselves familiar with self-organized learning and the blended-learning concept of the program. Design and implementation were evaluated with a questionnaire at the end of the course. The results show that the course is an appropriate instrument prior to engineering studies in order to prepare and support non-traditional students. In the conclusions potential for improvement is identified.

Title: A web based tool for teaching hardware design based on the plain simple hardware description language

Author(s): Becker, Karsten

Organisation(s): TU Hamburg Harburg, Germany

Presenter(s): Becker, Karsten

Abstract: In this paper a new online learning tool is presented. The goal is to improve the learning experience for designing hardware on RTL-level by facilitating collaboration and allowing a more agile development cycle. It also enables the inspection of the learning process of the students. When students have to learn register transfer level (RTL) hardware-design, usually either Verilog or VHDL are used as a hardware description language. Those languages do not just have an unfamiliar syntax and programming paradigm for the students (they are not sequential but rather describe the wiring of components), they also come with complex tools. It also happens that VHDL was originally designed for a different purpose and thus accepts input that is not necessarily fit for synthesis for FPGAs, which are primarily used as target for those hardware designs. Much to the frustration of the student it is also rather easy to create a mismatch between what the simulation does and how the design behaves on the real hardware. This results in not just a very unsatisfying learning experience as ”learning” is mostly about understanding the tools and their output, but it also distracts from the real goal of learning how to properly design hardware. A novel programming language called PSHDL, the plain simple hardware description language, keeps the parallelism- paradigm of VHDL and Verilog, but provides a significantly improved workflow. This workflow and its features are outlined in this paper. The improvements are not just for the student side, but also allow the teacher to take a direct look at the students progress and learning path. This information could then be used to improve the whole learning experience.

Title: Are there competences every computer scientist should have?

Author(s): Bröker, Kathrin; Magenheim, Johannes

Organisation(s): University of Paderborn, Germany

Presenter(s): Bröker, Kathrin

Abstract: Computer Science is a subject consisting of many different areas. Every computer scientist has his own focus. Nevertheless, we ask: Are there competences every computer scientist should have? This is an important question for industry and university. The reason is, with such a common knowledge we can expect these abilities from our students for example at the end of the bachelor or master phase. This paper presents a methodology to find out these competences and how to build a competence model accordingly. Such a competence model is necessary for our next step: Building an assessment to measure competences. Measuring competences is useful for example to value the benefit of interventions during educational processes.

Title: Using Videoanalysis to Evaluate Pedagogical Content Knowledge of Computer Science Student Teachers

Author(s): Margaritis, Melanie (1); Hubwieser, Peter (2); Magenheim, Johannes (1)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Paderborn, Germany; 2: Technical University of Munich, Germany

Presenter(s): Margaritis, Melanie

Abstract: This paper aims at identifying important competencies on the pedagogical content knowledge of student teachers specializing in the area of computer science at the University of Paderborn. We based our study on the competencies model developed by the “Competences for Teaching Computer Science” (KUI) research group. In our study, we use video recordings and interviews to analyze these competencies. Additionally, we ask students to estimate there own competencies and then compare these results with the results of the analysis. Moreover, we want to find out if these competencies have changed over a period of time (1998 – 2013), and if they have changed after the student has completed their education and has gained sufficient experience in their job as a professional teacher.

Title: Teaching "Design First" interleaved with Object Oriented Programming in a Software Engineering course

Author(s): Giordano, Daniela (1); Maiorana, Francesco (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Catania, Italy; 2: University of Catania, Italy

Presenter(s): Maiorana, Francesco

Abstract: The importance of teaching a solid design methodology is well recognized and this is goal in many software development courses. There is an ongoing debate concerning how to approach the learning of this skill, i.e., by focusing "design first" by means of UML formalism, or by "OO programming first", deferring the development of UML specifications. This work presents a teaching experience and curriculum content where a "design first" approach was used to teach Object Oriented Design, incrementally interleaved with Object Oriented Programming aimed at implementing the modeled software through laboratory activities. Working in groups allowed the students to improve communication and collaboration skills, and use of web 2.0 technologies, such as a wiki, allowed for better course management and for the deployment of a project involving all students. This approach was followed in one-year long courses administered to two classes with slightly different backgrounds and dispositions. A preliminary analysis of the formal written examination, including the laboratory exercises, is also presented with an analysis of the common errors and student misconceptions as well as a preliminary quantitative measure of the results.

Title: The Blue Track - Sustainability in the study programs of Mechanical and Electrical Engineerig

Author(s): Gross, Iris; Roerig, Horst; Franke, Dieter; Seuser, Katharina

Organisation(s): Bonn Rhine Sieg University of Applied Science, Germany

Presenter(s): Gross, Iris

Abstract: At the Bonn-Rhine-Sieg University of Applied Science, Germany, students will learn about sustainability in each semester. Climate change and limitations of fossil resources are demanding problems engineers have to solve today and much more in future. They will be asked to find solutions for providing energy from renewable sources, reducing consumption of resources and enhancing efficiency of energy and material input. To prepare the students for this challenging work, the department of Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Technical Journalism (EMT) has decided to educate their students of electrical and mechanical engineering in every semester in topics of sustainability and the students of Technical Journalism in ecology and environmental sciences. This continuous sequence of topics in the curriculum is called the “Blue Track“. Contents are e.g. E-Mobility, Smart Grids, sustainable product development and renewable energies.

Title: New Concepts of Automatic Answer Evaluation in Competence Based Learning

Author(s): Umbleja, Kadri; Kukk, Vello; Jaanus, Martin; Udal, Andres

Organisation(s): Tallinn Univeristy of Technology, Estonia

Presenter(s): Umbleja, Kadri

Abstract: This paper introduces current work with automatic evaluation that has been done to enable algorithms generating proper feedback according to the mistakes students have made. Learning environment using novel competence based approach has been used to implement those concepts and over the years data from different development steps has been collected that can be used to verify the benefits to students results of offered algorithm that mimics step-by-step student answering process.

Title: Representing Examination Question Knowledge into Genetic Algorithm

Author(s): Ibrahim Teo, Noor Hasimah; Abu Bakar, Nordin; Abd Rashid, Mohamad Rezduan

Organisation(s): Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia

Presenter(s): Ibrahim Teo, Noor Hasimah

Abstract: Examination is a medium of knowing the IQ of a person and how far is the understanding of certain subjects. Normally, the questions are prepared by course instructor in sets and become a burden if the subject is new to them as they needs to prepare it in a given time. This paper describes a method of auto generating a new set of final exam questions. The objectives of this paper are: to optimize selection of final examination question based on the Cognitive Level of Blooms Taxonomy; to design and develop an auto-generation examination question prototype using Genetic Algorithm and to evaluate the result of the auto-generation of questions prototype. This project follows the cognitive level of Blooms Taxonomy. There are many types of questions, but this system chooses to analyze the structured question only. The newly populated examination questions are based on the fittest value of the fitness function calculated. This technique can be upgraded and be used by other type of question too.

Title: Bringing The Inquiring Mind Back Into The Labs - A Conceptual Framework to Foster the Creative Attitude in Higher Engineering Education

Author(s): Terkowsky, Claudius; Haertel, Tobias; Bielski, Emanuel; May, Dominik

Organisation(s): TU Dortmund University, Germany

Presenter(s): Terkowsky, Claudius

Abstract: Introducing online laboratories provides a vast variety of novel opportunities for implementing creative experimentation into engineering education following the path of inquiry learning. Fostering and encouraging creative thinking while learning may not only breathe life into what is learned but can also deepen students’ understanding and creative self-efficacy. The presented conceptual framework proposes a personal learning environment based on mobile technology that can integrate online labs and an e-portfolio system to facilitate and foster creative learning in engineering education. Since new ideas mainly come spontaneously, the application of mobile devices can boost creative thinking processes. Having the mobile device handy allows the user to at least make a note of an idea or even record it, as well as storing observed artefacts and activities and working on them at a later time. Six different task-based scaffolding scenarios to foster creativity in the lab will be depicted in order to explain how the proposed personal learning environments can enrich formal classroom activities and laboratory work to reach high level learning outcomes.

Title: Building an Undergraduate Robotics Laboratory Serving the STEM Curriculum

Author(s): Zalewski, Janusz; Gonzalez, Fernando Garcia

Organisation(s): Florida Gulf Coast University, United States of America

Presenter(s): Zalewski, Janusz

Abstract: Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Software Engineering program has developed over recent years a sophisticated undergraduate software engineering lab for use in embedded and cyberphysical systems and related project courses. A number of teaching modules have been put in place, with emphasis on security, complex systems, and web-based access. The objective of the current project is the development a lab specific to robotics applications that can be used across the undergraduate STEM curricula. Developing such a lab has an impact on the advancement of teaching in STEM disciplines by connecting the lab to multiple STEM related courses. This paper outlines the major concepts and presents first results.

Title: Evaluation of Student Performance in Laboratory Applications using Fuzzy Decision Support System Model

Author(s): yıldız, zehra (1); baba, fevzi (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Okan university, Turkey; 2: Marmara University, Turkey

Presenter(s): yıldız, zehra

Abstract: In recent years, laboratory applications in engineering education has an important role. Because, applying the theoretical knowledge helps the development of students ontheir career. So, practice has an important role in educational environments. Also, the evaluation of these laboratory applications should be effective. Therefore, we propose a new approach to this assessment system. Our approach use fuzzy decision support system and propose a new approach that is called refinement process on student grades. Fuzzy helps more reliable decision and evaluation of these applications using some criteria. This model that uses fuzzy multi criteria method is developed for evaluating student performances in laboratory activities which consolidate theoretical knowledge with practical applications. In our approach, we use peer assessment, group assessment and personal assessment methods. This study supplies better evaluation system than classical systems.

Title: Remote Laboratory for Education in Automation Engineering

Author(s): Smajic, Hasan

Organisation(s): Cologne University of Applied Sciences, Germany

Presenter(s): Smajic, Hasan

Abstract: Experimental laboratories for automation skills represent a high investment. The reason for huge investment are the high cost for different multiple devices inside of automation solution and the cost for extensive engineering. Beside of the costs, usually the number of working stations does not fit the required number of the students, which must be trained. In this case the same exercises have to be repeated several times. Web Based laboratories are a very cost-effective solution in order to face those problems. This paper describes how this objective can be achieved, by implementation of a WBT server (WBT - Web-Based Training server) and Java based client server architecture. The idea behind a remote laboratory is to use the web technologies and internet as the communication infrastructure in order to perform experimental part of education with programmable automation devices.

Title: Can you learn better or worse when you are immersed? The effects of immersive user interfaces on learning in virtual environments

Author(s): Schuster, Katharina; Bach, Ursula; Richert, Anja; Jeschke, Sabina

Organisation(s): Institute of Information Management in Mechanical Engineering & Center for Learning and Knowledge Management (IMA/ZLW), RWTH Aachen University

Presenter(s): Schuster, Katharina

Abstract: Modern information and communication technologies have revolutionized engineering education in the past decades. Since technology plays an increasingly important role in education, it is crucial to understand how students learn best with it. While the actual content of virtual environments (VE) i.e. specific computer programs, online platforms or virtual laboratories is a prevalent research topic, the user interface is often out of scope. Apart from laptops or tablets, there are other user interfaces which can intensify the learners’ experience. Simulators for example are used in many different fields for educational purposes. By imitating real-world processes, personnel skills can be developed, increased or maintained. Therefore all interfaces of simulators aim at creating a perfect illusion for the user that he or she actually feels as being in the simulation. In this context, the term immersion is frequently used as an objective, gradable measurement to describe how capable technical features are to create perfect illusions, e.g. spatial presence. This how psychologically present the user feels within the simulated environment. When a user feels present in a simulated scenario, the effectiveness can be raised due to the fact that the experience more closely resembles the authentic situation. In order to understand more deeply, how students learn with immersive user interfaces within virtual environments, an experimental study has been carried out. According to a media-psychological approach, the study presented in this paper assesses the relationship between the learner, the hardware, the virtual environment, the perception of the learning situation and the learning outcome.

Title: The Vision for the Next Decade for the Engineering Education in Japan

Author(s): Komeda, Takashi

Organisation(s): Shibaura Institute of Technnology, Japan

Presenter(s): Komeda, Takashi

Abstract: Japanese Society for Engineering Education (JSEE) defines the vision for the next decade for the engineering education in Japan. Japanese engineering education system was based on the study of the basic theory at the university and, after that, when starting working in company, the job training is performed by each company. However, the changing of the industry structure and the globalization led the necessity to change the education target and method. JSEE recommends the active study, the global study and the evaluation based on outcomes. The certification from Japan Accreditation Board for Engineering Education (JABEE) is one of the solutions and the Project Based Learning (PBL) is important to urge students to the active study. Especially, global PBL includes not only the active learning but also the diversity and inclusion. I will explain the view of the Japanese enigineering education and global PBL into this speech.

Title: Presentation about EDUCON 2015 Conference

Author(s): Rüütmann, Tiia

Organisation(s): Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia

Presenter(s): Rüütmann, Tiia

Abstract: Presentation about EDUCON 2015 Conference

Title: Study Materials in Online Courses. Analysis reflecting individual learning styles

Author(s): Simonova, Ivana; Poulova, Petra

Organisation(s): University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic

Presenter(s): Simonova, Ivana

Abstract: The paper provides results of monitoring students´ satisfaction with studying in online courses reflecting individual learning styles. More than 300 pre-graduate engineers were included in the research sample of the three-year project “A flexible model of ICT-supported process of instruction reflecting individual learning styles”, which has been solved at the Faculty of Informatics and Management, University of Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic. Data were collected by the questionnaire using the Likert scale for evaluation of statements where students expressed their satisfaction with the process of instruction they were provided with.The course of project was structured into four phases: (1) detecting students´ individual learning styles; (2) designing the online course “Library services – Information competence and education” in three versions reflecting (a) students´ individual learning style, (b) teacher´s style of instruction and (c) monitoring the process of instruction managed by each student individually; (3) running the pedagogical experiment to verify or reject the hypothesis that tailoring the process of instruction to student´s preferences results in better knowledge expressed in higher test scores; (4) monitoring students´ feedback after the process of instruction. In this paper results received from the final questionnaire are presented.

Title: A tool for evaluating social media enhanced learning environment

Author(s): Silius, Kirsi; Tervakari, Anne-Maritta; Pirttilä, Olli; Paukkeri, Jukka; Mäkelä, Teemu

Organisation(s): Intelligent Information Systems Laboratory, Tampere University of Technology, Finland

Presenter(s): Silius, Kirsi

Abstract: Earlier research shows that almost three out of four students considered ease of use to be the most important criterion. Usability of the service is important especially in the educational context, so that a user can concentrate on the learning instead of struggling with the interface. The WeSQu tool was created in order to have guidelines for implementing high-quality web services and the possibility to evaluate quality of social media enhanced learning environments. In autumn 2013 IISLab conducted a research to evaluate the quality of the WeSQu tool itself. According to the results the WeSQu tool gives good support for the evaluation process and good basic background for evaluating the quality of different types of web services and, for example, help teachers to pay attention to important facts about the social media service they are planning to use.

Title: A Field Experiment with an Animated Intelligent Tutor in Portugal

Author(s): Santos, Gustavo (1); Jorge, Joaquim (1); Peñalvo, Francisco (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Lisbon, Portugal; 2: University of Salamanca, Spain

Presenter(s): Santos, Gustavo

Abstract: This paper describes a pedagogical experiment using an Intelligent Tutoring System that also implements an Animated Pedagogical Agent. The study was performed in Portugal, as an attempt to replicate some experiments performed in the USA, and in order to verify the usefulness of the Pedagogical Agent in a different country with distinct culture. After running the experiment and analyzing the data, we have concluded that in our specific case, we did not find any evidence that the pedagogical agent could boost instructional outcomes of students in Portugal. Our data is showing no statistically significant differences between the control, and experimental groups. Additionally, we have also found that the control group actually performed slightly better than the experimental group. As a result, our study is giving some good evidences that and APA that was developed, tested and successfully used in one country, may not be successful when used in a different country.

Title: Motivating programming students by Problem Based Learning and LEGO robots

Author(s): Lykke, Marianne (2); Coto, Mayela (1); Mora, Sonia (1); Vandel, Niels (2); Jantzen, Christian (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Universidad Nacional, Costa Rica; 2: Aalborg University, Denmark

Presenter(s): Lykke, Marianne

Abstract: Higher education institutions should train their students to meet the rising demands of tomorrow’s labor market. Skills such as problem solving, teamwork self-responsibility, and autonomy are becoming increasingly important. For this reason the School of Informatics at Universidad Nacional in Costa Rica is focusing on different teaching methods to help their students master these skills. This paper introduces an experimental, controlled comparison study of three learning designs, involving a problem based learning (PBL) approach in connection with the use of LEGO Mindstorms to improve students programming skills and motivation for learning in an introductory programming course. The paper reports the results related with one of the components of the study - the experirential qualities of the three learning designs. The data were collected through a questionnaire survey with 229 students from three groups exposed to different learning designs and through six qualitative walk-alongs collecting data from these groups by informal interviews and observations. Findings from the two studies were discussed in three focus group interviews with 10 students from the three experimental groups. .

Title: Engaging high school students in an engineering thermodynamics project

Author(s): Preciado Babb, A. Paulino; Saar, Candace; Sharon, Friesen; Brandon, Jim

Organisation(s): University of Calgary, Canada

Presenter(s): Preciado Babb, A. Paulino

Abstract: Efforts for recruiting and retaining students in engineering programmes are evident in many postsecondary institutions around the world. These efforts include outreach programmes at both elementary and secondary level, as well as projects that develop capacities beyond technical content—often taught as declarative and procedural knowledge. The mandate of Galileo Education Network Association, GENA, includes the design of rich learning environments engaging K-12 students in authentic tasks: Tasks that resemble the real work of professionals such as engineers. In this presentation we describe the experience of enacting a 6-session engineering project in thermodynamics with Grade 10 students. The initial project resulted from the collaboration—as a means for teacher professional development—between GENA and the mathematics and science teachers of a group of students in a western Canadian high school.

Title: Teaching Basic Control Concepts with a Home-made Thermal System

Author(s): Ovalle, Diana Marcela; Combita, Luis Francisco

Organisation(s): UNIVERSIDAD DISTRITAL FRANCISCO JOSE DE CALDAS, Colombia

Presenter(s): Ovalle, Diana Marcela

Abstract: This paper shows the work in the laboratory that has been done with the students of Control Systems at the fourth year in the Electronics Engineering Program at the Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas. Since the students should have proficiency in electronics design and implementation, we do not consider convenient to use typical control system equipment, which is mainly oriented to work with systems through programs like Matlab or Laview. We decide to assign the students to develop a thermal system, since even though it has a slow dynamics its behavior is very close to what we want for the students to see, related to linearity and all the concepts we want for them to “feel” in a clear way. These concepts include time response, frequency response, basic control actions and various controller design techniques. In the paper we discuss some implementation issues and the design process in detail, from the electronics and the controls points of view. In the same way, we comment about the different experiments sugested to the students, and their findings while working on the experiments. At the end of the paper, we sumarize some of the advantages and disadvantages that we have found in the teaching process while using this approach in the control systems laboratory on the last two years.

Title: Teaching FPGA-based Systems

Author(s): Skliarova, Iouliia (1); Sklyarov, Valery (1); Sudnitson, Alexander (2); Kruus, Margus (2)

Organisation(s): 1: University of Aveiro, Portugal; 2: Tallinn University of Technology, Estonia

Presenter(s): Sudnitson, Alexander

Abstract: In this paper we report on recent advances in teaching Field-Programmable Gate Array-based systems within engineering courses given in two Universities: Aveiro University in Portugal and Tallinn University of Technology in Estonia. Although both institutions have a 6-year history of intensive and fruitful collaboration in this area there is a constant need to update both the teaching methods and the respective laboratory equipment and tools to keep in pace with the demanding industry requirements. This paper describes the most recent changes in the organization of the respective courses and the corresponding teaching materials. In particular, the developed communication modules required for software/hardware co-design and co-simulation are explained in detail.

Title: The Improvement of Confidence Level 0f Students Learning Thermodynamics through a Multimedia courseware

Author(s): Mulop, Normah; Mohd Yusof, Khairiyah; Tasir, Zaidatun

Organisation(s): Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Malaysia

Presenter(s): Mulop, Normah

Abstract: Thermodynamics is an abstract, difficult to visualize and challenging course that is notorious for its difficulty among engineering students. As a consequence there are generally high attrition rates in thermodynamic classes. Thus a multimedia thermodynamic courseware was designed and developed using constructivist learning principles and visualization characteristics in order to help students visualize the abstract concepts. Visualization is emphasized due to the finding that most engineering students are visual learners and these students need additional support with animations, simulations, or further explanation with visualizations when they experience abstract principles. Studies also have shown that interactive multimedia systems can give motivation, increase learning rate, contribute to retention, and effectively manage large classes of students with different learning styles. The constructivist approaches incorporated in the courseware include attention, perception, comprehension, active learning, motivation, knowledge construction, and collaborative learning. The application of the courseware is through e-learning for students to use online after they have been exposed to the topics in classroom lectures at any time and from anywhere. Students’ performance and confidence in learning a particular course is related. In general good performance shows high in confidence level. There is also a strong connection between learning and confidence. This paper focuses on the analysis of the confidence level of students in learning thermodynamics before and after using the courseware. The data on confidence level were analyzed quantitatively. The finding shows that the confidence level of the students in learning thermodynamics improved significantly after using the courseware. The result is supported by sample t-test giving significant result in statistical analysis.

Title: An Evaluation Framework based on Timed Automata for Malleable Learning Scenario

Author(s): BenSassi, Manel; Laroussi, Mona

Organisation(s): ENSI (Ecole Nationale des Sciences de l'Informatique.), Tunisia

Presenter(s): BenSassi, Manel

Abstract: The evaluation of educational scenario is important to educators. It is one of the more challenging tasks that the pedagogical designer is faced with. In fact, the higher cost of the implementation of learning scenarios in distance learning and the complexity of their context and their functionalities emphasize the need to evaluate and to simulate them in order to detect potential errors and then to provide valuable feedback and recommendation to designers. For these reasons, in this paper, we propose a framework based on Timed Automata Theory for Malleable Learning Scenarios. The evaluation framework is based on four elements: time, space, role and activity. These elements can be used in order to evaluate if or not our educational scenario reveals inconsistencies. The result of this formal evaluation could be greatly useful to designers in order to increase their understanding of the learner's behaviour with the existing scenario by revealing ambiguities and incompleteness that might otherwise go undetected before starting the implementation. Thus, designers could return on the phase of design to add missing elements.

Title: Web Accessibility Evaluation of Massive Open Online Courses on Geographical Information Systems

Author(s): Calle-Jimenez, Tania Elizabeth (1); Sanchez-Gordon, Sandra Patricia (1); Luján-Mora, Sergio (2)

Organisation(s): 1: EPN, Ecuador; 2: Alicante University, Spain

Presenter(s): Calle-Jimenez, Tania Elizabeth

Abstract: This paper describes some of the challenges that exist to make accessible online courses in Geographical Information Systems (GIS). GIS are computer applications that acquire, manipulate, manage, model and visualize geo-referenced data for solving social, environmental, climatological, hydrological, planning, management and economic issues to support decision-making. Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are open and free of charge, meaning that anyone with internet access and willing to learn can use it. Geo-MOOCs is the generic name given to MOOCs on Geographical Information Systems (GIS). Currently, there are not many Geo-MOOCs, perhaps due to the difficulty of its development. An example of a Geo-MOOC is the course “Maps and the Geospatial Revolution”, developed by Penn State University. The course opened in July 2013 with 30,000 students. This proves a great interest in Geo-MOOCs. This is the online course used as study case in this research. Accessibility evaluation tools help developers make their web applications more accessible. The accessibility evaluation tools are a useful resource to identify accessibility problems but they cannot report all the issues nor solve them. Developers have to solve them. Developers can make changes to improve accessibility based on the evaluations results. The purpose of this research is to present the results of a web accessibility evaluation of a Geo-MOOC. The evaluation used three tools available for free on the Internet: Chrome Accessibility Developer Tools Audit Check, eXaminator and WAVE.Web accessibility analysis was performed based on a selection of web content and geographical data. We elaborated tables to summarize the results and analyzed them. This provided feedback for establishing recommendations to improve the accessibility of this online course. Other Geo-MOOCs can also benefit from these recommendations.

Title: Contextualized Development of Engineer's Competences for Sustainable Development

Author(s): Urrego-Giraldo, German Arturo (1); Giraldo, Gloria Lucia (2)

Organisation(s): 1: UNIVERSIDAD DE ANTIOQUIA (COLOMBIA), Colombia; 2: UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DE COLOMBIA, Colombia

Presenter(s): Urrego-Giraldo, German Arturo

Abstract: Achieving competence of engineers to manage sustainable development requires contextualization of training, in order to harmonize the knowledge domains considered in the curriculum, with the contexts in which the problems must be faced, where training purposes determine knowledge and learning experiences, and are enhanced the dimensions of the integral training: be, know, do , behave. It is in these contexts where competences that allow qualified and pertinent engineering practices, are expressed. In the training process converge and streamline domain and context knowledge. The domain is expressed in curricula contents. While the context includes knowledge of the agents, their interventions, goals, needs, situations, and resources. The training experiences related to teaching and learning are embedded in contexts which manifest the needs and problems to be addressed by the training program. There, training purposes and engineers competences get are consistent and integrated. To make effective contextualization of training and ensure their impact on the achievement of targeted skills centered on different dimensions of the comprehensive training, context models are posed in order to encourage agent interventions for solving problems of social and organizational contexts, which gave rise to the program. The overall training context formed by education institutions, students and society, is extended to consider the nature, economic and social organizations. Students interact with the other agents in this broad context to learn about proposed knowledge in curricula. So, they can to intervene the reality. These skills are pre- characterized by the dimensions of the comprehensive education: be, know, do and behave. Students already trained act, in that broader context, on domains realities that must be addressed by the training program, applying skills focused on comprehensive training dimensions set out above. Curriculum models are the support of pedagogical issues that guide the integration of domain and context models to promote learning, endorsed by the acquisition of skills. The pedagogical assumptions give rise to different curriculum models to support the teaching and learning processes, as well as different concepts to measure the capabilities of graduates and compliance training purposes of the program. The formation processes that integrate contextual and domain knowledge are particularly exploratory and research models. This concept is present in the Bologna agreement, the foundation of curriculum integration in the European Community. In this approach, in the framework of the so-called Dublin indicators, achievements of students are specified in five categories of learning outcomes: knowledge and understanding, application of knowledge and understanding, ability to judge, communication, and skills learning. It is seen from these categories lack of a dimension focused on the social behavior of individuals and their relationship with the natural environment, that allow to conceive of a more equitable and inclusive society in harmony with nature. In this ideal expressed by the concept of sustainability, the present work is situated. In addition to the competences of conceptualization, realization, implementation and evaluation of solutions, traditionally included in the curriculum, are required new skills and adapting others that enable engineers to intervene systemically social, human, environmental, economic and cultural events and phenomena.

Title: Accreditation Process for Engineering Programs in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and Lessons Learned

Author(s): Abou-Zeid, Azza (1); Taha, Mahmoud (2)

Organisation(s): 1: Structural Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Cairo University, Egypt; 2: Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Abdelaziz University, KSA

Presenter(s): Taha, Mahmoud

Abstract: Quality of engineering education is a core principle that can never be sacrificed. To ensure quality, engineering programs/schools seek national and/or international accreditation from relevant accreditation agencies. As higher education in Saudi Arabia is evolving rapidly and to ensure high education quality standards, the Ministry of Higher Education is requesting all the institutions of higher education to be accredited by the National Commission for Academic Accreditation & Assessment (NCAAA). The accreditation process is not very much liked by most of the faculty members as they have the misconception that it is an exhausting time consuming, not to say complex and unnecessary, process. Most faculty members are not enthusiastic about going through the preparation process and its requirements from data collection, documents and forms preparation, data aggregation, data analysis, collecting evidences, and developing corrective action and future plans as needed. This paper describes requirements for programs accreditation, the preparation process, and the challenges faced during the accreditation process. Few papers were published discussing different issues related to the accreditation process in Saudi Universities. Despite the importance of the accreditation related issues discussed in those papers, the authors believe that the challenges associated with the accreditation process and their causes are not fully reported and are very important to be presented. Programs, colleges, and faculty members need to realize those challenges to try to avoid them and make the accreditation process easier and smoother. Knowledge and information gained via observation, unstructured interviews with faculty members, discussions with colleagues from different Saudi universities, and extensive involvement of the authors in the accreditation process in a private university and a public university is utilized to state challenges and barriers experienced throughout different stages of the accreditation journey. The private university was preparing for NCAAA and the public university was preparing for ABET. Although the study is based more on the national accreditation experience, it was found that similar challenges were faced and same recommendations apply for both national and international accreditation. This means that type of accreditation and differences between programs/universities was not the problem and proves that the readiness of the program and the institution is the most important catalyst of the accreditation process. The main challenges faced by different programs were added workload, understaffing, inadequate training, inability to properly prepare required forms and documents, lack of faculty commitment to the accreditation process, high faculty turn over, and lack of proper support from higher administration. The paper discusses the main causes of the problems faced during the process and presents some recommendations that might help making the accreditation process easier and smoother. The study concludes with the fact that faculty and staff commitment and belief in the importance of quality and the benefits of accreditation to the programs and institution is the key success factor in attaining accreditation. Administration cannot force faculty and staff to go quality but can convince them that quality is the perfect life style for the institution.

Title: Lecture meets Laboratory - Experimental experiences for large audiences: concept and implementation

Author(s): Temmen, Katrin; Wehebrink, Markus; Nofen, Barbara

Organisation(s): University of Paderborn, Germany

Presenter(s): Nofen, Barbara

Abstract: Lecture meets Laboratory Experimental experiences for large audiences: concept and implementation Abstract— A lecture is an academic form of event of long-standing tradition. With students being actively involved in the learning process its efficiency may significantly be increased. This paper describes the restructuring of an engineering course with over 400 students where laboratory experiments are directly integrated into the lecture thus providing the students with individual practical experience OUR APPROACH To support the learning process, the lecture hall-lab for the lecture “Fundamentals of Electrical Engineering for Mechanical Engineers“ has been developed. It enables the students to apply and implement in practice their theoretical studies, which are often quite abstract in engineering. In the lecture hall-lab the laboratory-, lecture- und exercise phases are closely interrelated. The figure below shows the structure of a lecture unit using a low-pass filter as an example. This structure makes it possible to implement laboratory work into an auditorium having large audiences. The concept and the implementation of the lecture hall-lab are presented in this paper. A first testing of the new concept will take place in the winter semester of 2013/2014. It will be followed by extensive evaluation to investigate the impact and sustainability of the activating elements on the learning process.

Title: Experiences with Deploying VISIR at Al-Quds University

Author(s): Odeh, Salaheddin (1); Gustavo, Riberiro Alves (2); Anabtawi, Mahasen (1); Jazi, Mahran (1); Arekat, Mahmoud (1); Gustavsson, Ingvar (3)

Organisation(s): 1: Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Quds University, Palestinian Territories; 2: School of Engineering Polytechnic of Porto, School of Engineering, Porto, Portugal; 3: Blekinge Institute of Technology, Blekinge, Sweden

Presenter(s): Odeh, Salaheddin

Abstract: Engineering and science labs play a central role in illustrating concepts and principles as well as improving technical skills. Through introducing of remote labs, it will be possible to share devices, equipment and instrumentations with lots of universities. Moreover, they relax time and space constraints and are capable to be adapted to pace of each student if there was insufficient time in lab; this contribution reports the experiences at Al-Quds University in Jerusalem in Palestine with deploying VISIR, and represents the results of an evaluation for its appropriateness as a complementary asset to traditional labs. The questionnaire for the interaction between students and VISIR includes survey questions with the goal to measure the evaluation criteria: usefulness and satisfaction, sense of reality/immersion and usability.

Title: Integration of simulators in virtual 3D computer science classroom

Author(s): Branovic, Irina (1); Giorgi, Roberto (2); Jovanovic, Nenad (3); Popovic, Ranko (1); Zivkovic, Miodrag (4); Nikolic, Bosko (4)

Organisation(s): 1: Singidunum University, Belgrade, Serbia; 2: Department of Information Engineering, University of Siena, Italy; 3: Business School of Professional Studies, Blace, Serbia; 4: School of Electrical Engineering, University of Belgrade, Serbia

Presenter(s): Branovic, Irina

Abstract: Simulation has been widely used to study a variety of real world problems which are too costly or impractical to do in real life. This is especially true in engineering education, where it is very important for students to be able to observe, explore and manipulate device characteristics and behavior. Following our previous work, in this paper we describe a continuing process of designing a 3D computer science lab containing different pre-existing simulators which range in topics from digital logic design, through pipeline and processor cache simulation, to computer network simulation. Simulators are usually developed by experts who have an in-depth understanding of the topic being modeled, but are designed to be executed independently, and often created in different programming languages. The challenge is to facilitate the process of executing independent simulators together in a common environment where students can explore different alternatives and conduct low cost experiments. We integrated a number of simulators in active use in education into a common virtual classroom created using Open Wonderland toolkit. Instructors can freely choose among different simulators to use for teaching: SDLDS for digital logic design, JCacheSim for processor cache, WebMIPS for pipeline simulation, general computer system simulation SIMAS, or eWiSENS for wireless sensor networks. The only common denominator for any simulator to be used in our classroom is that it should be open-source, free for educational use, and written in Java programming language, for two principal reasons. First, the chosen virtual world tool, Open Wonderland, requires very little programming effort to integrate any software written in Java as a module. Importing simulators does not require code rewrite; instead, individual simulators are able to maintain their autonomy, thereby avoiding code rewrite. Second, Java is known by its native support for internationalization (I18n), which makes it very easy to create versions of the same classroom in different languages. Besides offering all available simulators in a common environment, our system is able to follow activities of each student within the classroom, to create learning profiles, and to dynamically choose appropriate elements for creating an environment according to student profile. Help of an instructor is necessary only at the beginning of the semester; later, each student creates its own, defined scene containing elements chosen depending on his/hers previous knowledge and learning profile. Such an adaptive system is currently used as teaching aid for different courses (digital logic design, computer architecture, operating systems, and computer networks) at various universities.

Title: Cloud-based Framework for Mobile Learning Content Adaptation

Author(s): Madjarov, Ivan

Organisation(s): Aix-Marseille University, France

Presenter(s): Madjarov, Ivan

Abstract: This paper discusses the problem of content adaptation for mobile devices. The adaptation considers the context of the client and also the environment where the client request is received. A device independent model is developed in order to achieve automatic adaptation of the content based on its semantic and the capabilities of the target device. A Web Services-based e-Learning Framework, as part of a Cloud-SaaS, is presented for adapting, displaying and manipulating learning objects on small handheld devices. A speech solution allows learners to turn any written text into natural speech files, using standard voices.

Title: Educational software system for reasoning and decision making using Bayesian networks

Author(s): Milenkovic, Katarina; Draskovic, Drazen; Nikolic, Bosko

Organisation(s): University of Belgrade, School of Electrical Engineering, Serbia

Presenter(s): Milenkovic, Katarina

Abstract: Artificial intelligence represents import area in the field of Computer Science and Engineering. The paper describes Bayesian thinking and the software system for learning Bayesian networks which was realized at the University of Belgrade - School of Electrical Engineering. This software has been developed as visual interactive educational system for students and will be used within undergraduate studies, in the course of Intelligent Systems. In this system is possible to create arbitrary Bayesian network and demonstrate the process of reasoning and decision making, through detailed monitoring of the process. The main objectives of using the system are: to simplify the learning process, make it efficient and easily integrated into the course.

Title: VISIR work in progress

Author(s): Gustavsson, Ingvar; Lundberg, Jenny

Organisation(s): Blekinge Institute of Technology, Sweden

Presenter(s): Gustavsson, Ingvar

Abstract: The VISIR (Virtual Instrument Systems in Reality) Open Lab Platform is an architecture enabling universities, secondary schools, and other organizations to open instructional laboratories for remote access with preserved context. VISIR emanates from a feasibility study made in 1999 at BTH (Blekinge Institute of Technology). Today, VISIR laboratories are online at seven universities globally where students can work and conduct most experiments that can be performed on a solderless breadboard remotely without any risk of being harmed. IAOE (International Association of Online Engineering has organized a Special Interest Group for VISIR (SIG VISIR). Further development of the platform is carried out in this Community. This paper is about work in progress especially at BTH.

Title: Developing a Graduate Level Embedded System Programming Course Content by Using Blended Programming Methodologies: Text-Based and Graphical

Author(s): Korkmaz, Hayriye (1); Azaklar Bal, Sezen (2); Cosgun, Ercan (3); Toker, Kenan (4)

Organisation(s): 1: Marmara University, Faculy of Technology, Turkey; 2: Marmara University, Institute of Pure and Applied Sciences, Turkey; 3: Gedik University,Vocational School, Turkey; 4: Marmara University, Faculty of Technical Education, Turkey

Presenter(s): Korkmaz, Hayriye

Abstract: This article deals with identifying the materials and the methods that will be used in this course based on "Embedded System Programming (ESP)" course for Electrical-Electronics Engineering Graduate program of MU Faculty of Technology. When the varying levels of skill and knowledge of the students is considered, it becomes necessary to adopt a blended programming method for the contents of the course. Even though the course is regarded as 3+0 ECTS of 8 credits (Theory: 3, Applied: 0), a content supported with extensive application is recommended. The content of the course allows developing applications using Xilinx Spartan 3E Starter Kit. Students taking this course are able to choose a method best fitted to their programming skills or preferences. However, it might be possible that the lecturer may not have a wide range of programming knowledge and skills. In this case, the graduate students are expected to determine and complete their own needs or shortcomings with the accumulation of knowledge they gained in their undergraduate studies. With the lecturer's guidance, the students are free to choose whether to use graphical programming (LabVIEW, LabVIEW FPGA Module) or conventional text-based programming (Verilog, VHDL, Matlab HDL Coder) in their projects. In this way, we expect an improvement in understanding of the contents and an expansion in scope.

Title: What should they learn? - A short comparison between different areas of competence and accreditation boards’ criteria for engineering education

Author(s): May, Dominik; Terkowsky, Claudius

Organisation(s): TU Dortmund University, Germany

Presenter(s): May, Dominik

Abstract: The question “What should engineering students learn for being successful engineers?” is and always was a driver for intense discussions about curriculum development learning outcomes in engineering education. Tons of paper must have been printed all over the world by now, discussing and answering - or at least trying to answer - this question. It is obvious that there cannot bee one right question. Answers differ between various types of education institutions, various fields of specialization, and even various countries. Such differences make it necessary, that a framework, which describes the students’ intended learning outcomes in engineering education programs, must be designed openly to represent engineering education in general and in the same way accurately enough to answer the question above. Therefore this work-in-progress-paper firstly discusses a general model of areas of competence, secondly looks at different accreditation boards criteria for engineering education and thirdly develops a general framework for learning outcomes in engineering education by combining these two approaches.

Title: Renewable Energy Power Station as a Multidisciplinary Laboratory

Author(s): Labriola, Carlos Víctor; Colon, Daniel; Isabel, Ferraris; Marcelo, Avila; Gustavo, Ludueña

Organisation(s): FIUNCo, Argentine Republic

Presenter(s): Labriola, Carlos Víctor

Abstract: Prof. Carlos V. M. Labriola, Prof. Daniel Colón, Prof. Isabel Ferraris, Ing. Marcelo Ávila, Ing. Gustavo Ludueña. Keywords: Power, station, renwable, fiber optic, holistic, intelligent grid. I. INTRODUCTION A Power Station which will provide energy from Renewable Energy fuels (PSRE) will be installated in the University of Comahue, Neuquén, Argentina. This installation is designed not only for energy supply, but also for academic work as a Muldtidisciplinary Laboratory for several engineer carreers (electrical, mechanical, electronics and chemistry ones). Wind, Solar, Micro-Hydro and Biomass are the renewable sources to convert in electricity by means of appropiate devices which depends on the resource behaviour and local available technology. The conversion energy devices are: • Vertical axis wind turbine Darrieus-troposkien of 1 to 5kW and 50 to 150kW. • Micro-Hidro Turgo Turbine with a water reservoir of 1 to 5kW. • Two multi-fuel power unit usin biodiesel from micro algae and biogas from anaerobic digestion. • Solar Energy PV system and Solar Thermal from Fresnel mirrors. II. POWER AND DEMAND The initial supplying power will be 10 to 50kW by means of wind and micro-hydro generation, as base one using micro-hydro when there is no wind. Then when Power units with multifuel facilities where available, the installated power will be 500kW. The total demand of the University buildings in Neuquén is 1,5MW and it will be total supplied when appropiate legislation will put in practice. At the beginning the Renewable Power Station as Co-Generation system with the local energy company suplier. CO2 produced and avoided emissions are calculated for each type of renewable resource by means of Clean Development Mechanism. This type of calculation permits to integrate this system with other renewable ones reachin 10MW of installed power to emit green bones. III. COMUNICATION SYSTEM Appropiated Comunication System (CS) is in developing and testing by software. It is designed in three ways of comunication: (a)Fiber optics system (FO). (b) Ethernet system. (c) FM syetem. The last two systems are cheaper than the first and will be installated before. Then, when the FO system will be installed it will be the princpal one, and the others will be buck ups. This CS wil permits not only the supervission and control but also the operation and predicytive maintenance. IV. INTELLIGENT GRID PSRE will be connected to the Low Voltage system of the Univerity, and the unit commintment will have two control situation: (a) when the power supply is less than the demand, PSRE will operate as Co-generation unit. (b) when the Power supply is more than the demand, PSREwill accumulate the surplus energy in a available accumulation system (water reservoir, battery system or heating system at 250ºC). The upper paragraph means that the Operation system, the Electrical Protective and Measurement ones needs to be integrated to an Intelligent Grid system to mantain the energy supply taking into account the demand needs, tha available energy accumulated and the lines committed on the grid. V. HOLISTIC ORGANIZATION The actions to manage the PSRE are classified in technical aspects and non technical aspects. Technical aspect actions have relatively no problems to carry on, because they are made under technical regulations and standards. But in the case of nontechnical aspect actions, they are involved in bureaucracy situations, where sometimes there are people not qualified in technical skills that have to decide on feasibility of the projects. Finally the Non technical aspects are managed with holistic actions to mitigate or reduce risks particularly those produced by human errors. VI. ACADEMIC ORGANIZATION ON THE PROJECT This multidisciplinary project, is being developed taking into account the engineer carriers involved in it. For each one the PSRE will be “in situ” laboratory with the real procedures for design, construction, installation, operation and also dismantling and recycling. In other words it is based in Life Cycle (LC) procedures through a continue LC Analysis.

Title: Introducing CAD/CAM and CNC machining by using a feature based methodology in a manufacturing lab course, a conceptual frame work

Author(s): Iqbal, Hassan; Sheikh, Anwar; Abdul Samad, Mohammad

Organisation(s): King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia

Presenter(s): Iqbal, Hassan

Abstract: In a continuous effort to develop and incorporate innovative teaching styles in the Mechanical Engineering curriculum at King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, a new lab course titled Advanced Manufacturing Lab (ME-407) has been introduced, wherein the senior students are exposed to CAD/CAM. The main objective of this course is to inculcate the knowledge in the area of CAM software, its application in computerized numerical controlled (CNC) machining, metrological study and data generation for statistical analysis. For doing so, a comprehensive project is being developed which integrates all the above elements. This paper outlines a proposed strategy to accomplish these targets and a set of carefully selected activities to follow when this new course starts