A4 Article in conference proceedings
Distance Learning with Hands-on Exercises : Physical Device vs. Simulator (2022)

Myllymäki, M., & Hakala, I. (2022). Distance Learning with Hands-on Exercises : Physical Device vs. Simulator. In FIE 2022 : Proceedings of the IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference. IEEE. Conference proceedings : Frontiers in Education Conference. https://doi.org/10.1109/fie56618.2022.9962747

JYU authors or editors

Publication details

All authors or editors: Myllymäki, Mikko; Hakala, Ismo

Parent publication: FIE 2022 : Proceedings of the IEEE Frontiers in Education Conference

Conference:

Place and date of conference: Uppsala, Sweden, 8.-11.10.2022

ISBN: 978-1-6654-6245-7

eISBN: 978-1-6654-6244-0

Journal or series: Conference proceedings : Frontiers in Education Conference

ISSN: 1539-4565

eISSN: 2377-634X

Publication year: 2022

Publication date: 08/10/2022

Publisher: IEEE

Publication country: United States

Publication language: English

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1109/fie56618.2022.9962747

Publication open access: Not open

Publication channel open access: 

Publication is parallel published (JYX): https://jyx.jyu.fi/handle/123456789/85530

Abstract

This Research to Practice Full Paper presents a comparison between a physical device and a simulator in a distance learning context. Programming embedded devices is very commonly taught using embedded hardware. One of the most used solutions is the Arduino microcontroller platform, which allows small embedded applications to be built and commanded in a programming language. However, there are some challenges in using physical devices for educational purposes. These challenges are particularly acute in distance learning or when the course needs to be scalable to a varying number of students. To address these challenges, we explored the potential of a simulator as a replacement for a physical device. We implemented the course using both the physical device and the simulator and collected student and lecturer feedback and experiences. The results showed that the physical device is somewhat more concrete and motivating, but the simulator is also very well suited for the purpose. The technical solution did not seem to have an impact on course completion or workload. There are also some advantages of using a simulator over a physical device, such as the possibility to test electronic connections without fear of breaking down the equipment.

Keywords: programming; ubiquitous computing; microcontrollers; distance teaching; training; simulation training; online courses

Free keywords: training; computer aided instruction; embedded systems; costs; microcontrollers; scalability; hardware

Contributing organizations

Ministry reporting: Yes

Reporting Year: 2022

JUFO rating: 1