Teaching and Learning in a Digital World

Inhaltsverzeichnis

1. Engineering Pedagogy

   1. Frontmatter

   2. Work-in-Progress: Lean Education/Lean Innovation

      Andrei Neagu, Doru Ursutiu, Cornel Samoila

      Abstract

      This article analyzes strategies that aim at creating innovative solutions or business concepts on a user-centered approach: lean startup. Those approaches involve customers, potential users, or other stakeholders into their development process. Although there are significant differences between the traditional approach and the lean approach, in our future work we plan to investigate the strategies of applying tailored structures to guiding students in in Higher Education Institutions, in creating market-demanded innovation.

   3. Using PBL and Rapid Prototyping Resources to Improve Learning Process

      Jovani Castelan, Rosemere Damasio Bard

      Abstract

      This paper aims to demonstrate the modeling and implementation of innovative teaching-learning practices in Higher Education, based on Active Learning Methodologies, by highlighting especially, PBL – Problem Based Learning using Rapid Prototyping devices. In order to apply PBL’s methodology to the graduation courses, it was developed an implementation model, in which, there are four levels of implementation. Each level has four class attributes, which are classroom space-time, student autonomy, teaching role and problem’s scope. The obtained results show that the students demonstrate higher levels of interest, participation, and involvement with classmates, motivation and content’s perennial assimilation. With the application of these methodologies, skills required by job market, such as teamwork, relationship, collaboration, proactivity and entrepreneurship are also developed.

   4. Influence of Study Skills on the Dropout Rate of Universities: Results from a Literature Study

      Nilüfer Deniz Bas, Robert Heininger, Matthias C. Utesch, Helmut Krcmar

      Abstract

      A high dropout rate from universities has been a topic of interest in educational research for more than a decade. The withdrawal from the university on the one hand is frustrating for the students and their families, and on the other hand mostly means a waste of time and money. Tailoring every higher education program to each students’ learning styles and needs is difficult. However, mastering the requisite study skills at the pre-university phase (K-12) is considered one of the solutions to diminish university dropouts. By conducting a literature study, we identified relevant study skills and their influencers as well as the appropriate period to improve these skills. We created a model illustrating the relationship between five study skill categories, their influencers and their effects on dropout from university. This study aims to increase awareness and active stakeholders such as families, teachers, and universities for cooperating to strengthen the study skills of school students.

   5. Electrical Engineering Students’ Achievement in Measurement Accuracy of Digitized Signals – Work in Progress

      Nissim Sabag, Elena Trotskovsky

      Abstract

      The current paper presents of a continuous longitudinal research dealing with different aspects of accuracy and the way the students understand it. Previous studies have shown that understanding the accuracy concept is not obvious. A previous study exposed students’ difficulties in calculating measurement accuracy of digitized signals. After writing a special study unit on measurement accuracy and measurement error and adding it to the curriculum of Digital Electronics course, two questions questionnaire entered to the final test on digital electronics course. The students’ grades showed an improvement in understanding the accuracy concept, but not sufficient. The study unit included explanation, tutorial and homework. A replication of the previous experiment in Fall semester 2015 showed a substantial improvement in the students’ achievements regarding the accuracy concept. This time the students got explanation and example but no homework concerning the accuracy concept. Nevertheless, they had the chance to see and solve the previous questionnaire so the questions regarding accuracy did not surprise them. Solving old test questionnaires is a common mode of learning among our students therefore this may be the explanation of the improvement in the students’ grades.

   6. How Does Indirect Feedback Affect the Attitude in Higher Software Engineering Education?

      Martina Kuhn

      Abstract

      Specialized programming knowledge and further generic competencies are needed to be able to develop software adequately. Therefore, it is essential to foster communication skills in higher software engineering education. One aspect of communication – feedback – is used rather frequently in agile software development as well as in educational settings, but: How does this indirect feedback affect the attitude of students in higher software engineering education? This paper describes a research proposal in order to detect how and to what extent indirect feedback has an impact on the individual’s attitude.

   7. ‘‘We Don’t Want to Know Their Names!’’

      A Long Way to Go from Engineering Versus Pedagogy to Engineering Pedagogy Evgenia Sikorski, Cristina Urbina, Michael Canz, Evelyn Großhans

      Abstract

      In the course of the last few years, our students are becoming increasingly unhappy. Sometimes they stop attending lectures and even seem not to know how to behave correctly. It feels like they are getting on strike. Consequently, drop-out rates are sky-rocketing. The lecturers/professors are not happy either, adopting an “I-don’t-care” attitude.

      An interdisciplinary, international team set in to find out: (1) What are the students unhappy about? Why is it becoming so difficult for them to cope? (2) What does the “I-don’t-care” attitude of professors actually mean? What do they care or not care about? (3) How far do the views of the parties correlate? Could some kind of mutual understanding be achieved?

      The findings indicate that, at least at our universities, there is rather a long way to go from “Engineering versus Pedagogy” to “Engineering Pedagogy”.

   8. Internet of Vehicles Demo System for Autonomous Driving Applications Used in Engineering Education

      Gerald Kalteis, Gabriele Schachinger, Bernhard Miksovsky, Martin Potocnik, Rezek Michael

      Abstract

      This paper shows two best practices examples to bring Internet of Things, especially Internet of Vehicles in a classroom (i.e. at engineering educational institutions). It includes a proposal on how to incorporate the most complex topic “Internet of Things” in particular “Internet of Vehicles” with small exercises on a model system that students themselves have designed and built. The model system was created as a diploma thesis at a higher technical school TGM in Vienna at the Department of Mechanical Engineering with the focus on automotive engineering. Using this practical model system, the networking of things can be more easily understood, or even problems can be easily shown.

   9. New Concept of Learning Mathematics

      Anil Baburao Satpute

      Abstract

      To study mathematics, many students face problem to understand the concept of question and the method to solve it. Here the purpose is to develop simple methods to solve them. Looking at the method of the students solving math problems, simplified methods to solve the problems are developed. These methods can save the time and take less effort to solve the problems.

      Read, Think, and Learn (RTL) is the main course of studies for the students. Once one acquires it, he/she will enjoy mathematics.

   10. How to Bring a Graduate Program Closer to Employers’ Needs?

       A Case Study in Qatar University in the Field of IT Laurent Veillard, Stéphanie Tralongo, Catherine Galli, Abdelaziz Bouras, Michel Le Nir

       Abstract

       Since the mid of the 1990s, Qatar is engaged in an economic diversification strategy to move away from an economy strongly based on gas and oil. The national authorities consider that high-quality education, especially at the tertiary level, is absolutely essential to succeed in this strategy. Despite of repeated reforms since the middle of the nineties, there are still some important difficulties in the Qatari higher education system, and especially in Qatar University (QU), the main national university. One of them is related to academic programs not really preparing students for professional integration. The Pro-Skima project aims at finding possible pedagogical modifications of the curriculum of the Master of Science in Computing of QU, to better meet the needs of highly skilled workers in the IT professional sector in Qatar. Part of this project is a sociological study of the main characteristics of the existing curriculum of this master program. Results highlight a curriculum based on an Anglo-Saxon model. In this model, several internal and external accreditation institutions have a strong influence on any evolution of the curriculum. They put different constraints that give little space to discuss more flexibly with local employers in order to change the curriculum. Further developments of the project consist in finding what could be some concrete solutions to overcome these difficulties and bring the curriculum closer to employers’ needs. On possibility is to experiment a curriculum that includes more workplace learning periods.

   11. A Constructivist Approach to the use of Case Studies in teaching Engineering Ethics

       Diana Adela Martin, Edward Conlon, Brian Bowe

       Abstract

       Our paper aims to explore the effectiveness of a constructivist approach to the teaching of engineering ethics through case studies, by putting forward a contextualization of the much discussed case study “Cutting Road Side Trees” [12] in light of the constructivist frame suggested by Jonassen [8]. First, we briefly analyse how the use of case studies for the teaching of engineering ethics eludes the complexity of the engineering professional environment before arguing that constructivism is a learning theory that can help to address this complexity. The final section proposes a constructivist reworking of the case method in a manner that aims to correct the deficiencies identified, followed by a discussion of the results of applying the contextualized exercise to First Year group of engineering students. The key findings reveal that the contextualized scenario enhances, in some respects, students’ understanding of the social dimension of the engineering profession.

   12. Measuring the Increase in Students’ Comprehension in a Flipped Introductory Calculus Course

       Rahmad Dawood, Mohd. Syaryadhi, Muhammad Irhamsyah, Roslidar

       Abstract

       Introductory Calculus is one of the foundational courses in any engineering curriculum. Many innovations have been introduced in the teaching of this course to enhanced students’ understanding of its material. One new innovation that is increasingly being adopted is the Flipped Classroom method. This paper reports on an experiment that measures the increase in comprehension of students who took an Introductory Calculus course taught using the Flipped Classroom method that was specially designed for a developing country setting. Results from the experiment shows that students who were taught using this Flipped Classroom method had better comprehension than students who were taught using the traditional classroom method. Specifically, students who were taught using the Flipped Classroom method had, on average, 17.45 points higher exam scores.

   13. Training Using Professional Simulators in Engineering Education: A Solution and a Case Study

       Dorin Isoc

       Abstract

       Continuing previous researches on engineering education, this paper presents how to build and use a professional training simulator. The training simulator is specified and then, it is implemented as a set consisting of a technical simulator, basic concepts and techniques and a basis for professional regulation documents. An example of usage shows that, through the construction of the training simulator, the individual performance of student work increases significantly, professional skills are acquired in an integrated way and cooperation between students becomes a permanent practice. In conclusion, recommendations are being made to extend professional simulators to a larger coverage of professional skills. This extension will be at the expense of accumulation of theoretical knowledge with a potential and probable future application.

   14. Engineering Students’ Solutions to Accuracy Problems in Analog Electronics Course

       Elena Trotskovsky, Nissim Sabag

       Abstract

       In the course of the last three years, a longitudinal study researching engineering students’ understandings of the concept of accuracy and error has been carried out. Previous studies of the researchers investigated general misunderstandings of the concept of accuracy and error among engineering students from different programs, and specific misunderstandings of those concepts among electrical and electronic engineering students in Digital Electronics course. The studies showed that students’ understanding of these important engineering concepts is insufficient. The current study researches students’ achievements in solving problems that relate to the concepts of accuracy and to basic analog electronics concept of non-linearity and saturation. The research was carried out in April - May 2017 during Analog Electronics course with 38 participants. A mixed methodology was applied; in the quantitative stage the students solved problems relating to the concept of accuracy, and in the qualitative stage 15 open interviews were carried out. It was found that engineering students with inadequate understanding of basic accuracy concepts struggle with interpreting the concepts of analog electronics while solving problems related to the issue. The research intends to be continued with the aim to show that consistent treatment of the issue will benefit students’ understanding of basic electronics and accuracy concepts.

   15. The Necessity of Competency Development in Engineering Informatics Education in the Light of Students’ Characteristics

       Zita Tordai, Ildikó Holik

       Abstract

       Current technological innovations and continuous change in the labor market have generated new challenges for higher education, and universities now underline the importance of competency development. The purpose of this paper is to examine the competencies of undergraduates attending Engineering Informatics education, and to identify their personal needs for development in the light of workplace demands. The characteristics of the motivation and personality profiles of Engineering Informatics students are also addressed in this research in order to reveal possible ways of motivating them by implementing new methods or approaches in Engineering Informatics education.

   16. Assessing the Needs of Technical Intelligentsia for Professional Development

       Ekaterina Makarenko, Larisa Petrova, Alexander Solovyev, Vjatcheslav Prikhodko

       Abstract

       In the paper we studied the results of sociological surveys conducted in 2 target groups including representatives of the so called “technical intelligentsia” social stratum - engineers and top-managers employed in industry and scientific research. Both groups are involved in creation and R&D of intellectual products for the development of science and technology. The analysis of respondents approach on the following problems is given herein: attitude to the national scientific and technical policy, skills necessary for professional career, evaluation of personal competences and needs to forge qualification, look into their own knowledge of current regulating documents for educational and technological activities, perception of interconnections between engineering education and the labor market. The needs within target groups are identified by areas of activity and within the framework of educational programs of professional development.

   17. Plagiarism Deterring by Using a Sociocybernetic System

       Dorin Isoc

       Abstract

       After more than four years of research and assessment of a sociocybernetic system, the present paper makes the first coherent and concrete reporting. The purpose of the sociocybernetic system is to deter plagiarism in a society clogged with this scourge. The technical features of identification of the act are given, and further the sociocybernetic tool functions included in the sociocybernetic system are specified in the form of the Plagiarized Works Index. The functionality of the Index is placed on the detailed structure, organized on the presentation of records and databases. From the operation of the Index, information is collected so that one builds up statistics that are detailed interpreted. In conclusion, the way of action on historical plagiarisms is made so that they represent an exemplification in the training of the young students, but also a way in which the authors of the published plagiarized works are subject to public rebellion.

   18. Systemic Approach to In-house Training in English for Technical University Staff

       Inga Slesarenko, Irina Zabrodina, Maria Netesova

       Abstract

       The necessity to design and implement training programmes in English is conditioned by their relevance to current goals of the university development. The training programmes for TPU staff since 2013 incorporate three pathways: courses for research and teaching staff; courses for professional services staff; courses for university senior managers. The programmes are complemented by joint programmes run with international partner. Verification of courses accomplishment is being monitored by independent testing procedures run by another TPU structural unit in order to confirm the correspondence of the level of language proficiency of the courses graduates to the results announced at the beginning of the studies.

   19. Inbound International Faculty Mobility Programs in Russia: Best Practices

       Artem Bezrukov, Julia Ziyatdinova, Phillip Sanger, Vasily G. Ivanov, Natalia Zoltareva

       Abstract

       The paper aims at analyzing the best practices of government funded inbound international faculty mobility programs in Russia through the experience of a leading national research engineering university. The paper gives an overview of the global inbound international faculty mobility programs, and then narrows down to the programs funded by the Russian government institutions. Analyzing a specific case of a visiting foreign professor, the study reveals several short-term and long-term outcomes of the inbound mobility practices: from enhancing motivation of students to be internationalized and further developing other academic mobility initiatives such as student mobility, joint research activities, and dual degree programs to a positive impact on a regional economy.

   20. Effect of an Emotional Video on Skin Conductance Response of Respondents in Dependence on Personality Type

       Martin Malcik, Miroslava Miklosikova

       Abstract

       This paper reports on the results of research whose aim was to find out whether and how the respondents’ skin conductance change due to emotions experienced while watching emotional videos and whether there is a relation between a type of personality and a type of “emotional” curves we measured (the respondents were the teachers of vocational subjects). Emotions arise as an immediate response to a current situation with regard to the individual’s experience, interests and goals, comprising both subjective experiences and physiological changes, changes in attention and readiness, and changes in motoric expressions. The paper aims to show how secondary school teachers experience emotions and whether there is a relation between the measured values of skin conductance and types of personality. We found out that the skin conductance method reliably measures the intensity of experiencing emotions. It became apparent that the intensity of experiencing emotions is connected with a personality type in certain cases.

   21. Motivation of Adolescents to the Study of Technical Branches as a Priority of the Czech Education System

       Pavel Andres, Alena Vališová, Petr Svoboda, Lenka Mynaříková

       Abstract

       The project is at the theoretical level oriented to the possibilities of enhancement of the adolescents’ motivation to the study at technically oriented secondary schools. Innovative methods and forms of teaching are important means that put emphasis on the use of information and communication technologies and elements of practice learning. The project proceeds from the combination of extensive (theoretical analyses, observation) and intensive way of research (moderated discussions, focus groups, pedagogical experiment). The teaching methods and techniques using ICT will be proposed on the basis of the respective school documents and professional literature analysis. The attention will be concentrated on outlining of a motivation programme for the secondary school students that will be realized and verified in teaching at the secondary schools. At the same time the interest of adolescents in science and technology will be systematically developed. The project anticipates cooperation with the distinguished science and technology specialists and with experts from technical workplaces. The project is based on the following fundamental premises: the need of study at technical schools as a priority of the Ministry of education in 2016 and the important demands of the labour market, i.e. the fulfilment of graduates at the technical professional posts.

   22. Psychology and Pedagogical Maintenance of Formation of Career Competence of Future Engineers

       Khatsrinova Olga, Vasily G. Ivanov

       Abstract

       For ensuring quality of engineering training it is necessary to use in educational process of a technique, providing this quality. Each subject matter has to play a role in formation of professional competences of future experts. The humanitarian discipline “Management of training processes” in the contents considers questions of creation of professional career.

       During classroom occupations by masters methodical recommendations “Planning of career as an advance element on an office ladder” have been developed. During an educational semester they actively participated in research, educational and other actions, and then investigated personal changes.

   23. Collaborative Project-Based Learning in Training of Engineering Students

       Gulnara F. Khasanova, Phillip A. Sanger

       Abstract

       This paper describes an implementation of project based learning to a class of Russian students studying psychodiagnostics. A survey of the students after the experience was compared to a separate class of BS students in professional education. Based on these surveys and interviews with students, the results suggest that explicit training in project management tools and exercises in skills for team dynamics might enhance the positive experience.

   24. Work in Progress: Real-Time Annotations of Video-Lectures

       Marco Ronchetti

       Abstract

       We present our work about the development of a system, which allows taking notes during a lecture, and having the notes integrated in the video recording of the lecture itself. The notes become semantic markers into the video, and could possibly be shared with peers and teacher.

   25. The Perception of the One-Semester International Academic Mobility Programme by Students of Computer Science

       Marek Milosz, Elzbieta Milosz

       Abstract

       Increase in student mobility is one of the objectives of the European Union (EU) and many other countries of the world. This mobility is meant to increase the ability and flexibility to acquire knowledge and skills by students, get them used to the freedom of movement of people and services, and educate them in the area of international and multicultural cooperation. The EU, through a number of programmes (especially those grouped in Erasmus+), supports such mobility organisationally and financially. The article presents the results of research among students of Computer Science (CS), aimed at detecting their perception of the opportunity to participate in a one-semester international academic mobility, i.e. to study abroad for one semester. The survey covered almost all undergraduate CS students of the Lublin University of Technology at their fifth semester, when they take decisions to apply to go abroad for one semester. We analysed their overall assessment of this type of travel, the level of the perceived usefulness of the experience, the concerns and risks associated with it and the students’ interest. Some elements of the research were differentiated for Polish and foreign students. The results of the tests are not conclusive, because despite the generally positive perception of the programme, a relatively small percentage of students declare their willingness to take part in it.