Abstract-This paper tackled the issues of different learning preferences for Computer Science and Mechatronics students in a large class environment by using different active learning methodologies. Apart from implementing active learning methods in the class, another idea present here is coupling with another course. The efforts required and the effectiveness for these methods are being presented, with this the suitable methods can be selected depending on the participants and the resources available.
Programming is a challenging subject to students who are exploring it for the very first time. Common problems faced by the students are difficult to break down the main problem to sub-problems, providing a solution to the problem using specific steps and placing the different steps in the correct order to solve the problem. Three online supported methods are implemented in a programming 1 class across three semesters. They are online group discussion using Facebook group, the hour of code activities provided by code.org, and online journaling using Google Form. The impact of the three different are being discussed. It is observed that all the three methods increased students engagement towards the subject. Students posed questions, gave feedback and participated actively in the class. More study is needed to determine the impact of these methods toward students grade.
This research looks into implementation of Facebook in six different courses covering Science, Engineering and Technology subjects. The initial purpose of using Facebook in the class is to communicate with the students more effectively, as communication through the formal channel (through learn management system) had not been successful. It is expected that by sending two to three notices per week to the students as a gentle reminder for reading material, assignments or even tests, students would be more motivated to engage in the course content. The research results showed that students are positive in using Facebook as an engagement tool. The engagement also encourages their participation in class, and enhances their interest towards the subject content. Features that influenced this engagement are also looked into.
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