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:
- Frontiers in Education 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
VIRTA submission year: 2022
JUFO rating: 1
- The Unit of Information Technology (Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius KYC, CHYD)
- Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius (Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius KYC, CHYD) KYC/CHYD
- Learning and education (Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius KYC, CHYD)
- Smart and sustainable solutions for industries (Kokkola University Consortium Chydenius KYC, CHYD)