Lessons from adopting a maker approach to teaching operating systems with Raspberry Pi

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to propose a maker’s approach to teaching an operating systems (OSs) course in which students apply knowledge of OSs to making a toy robot by focusing on input/outputs, hardware devices and system programming. Design/methodology/approach Classroom action research is involved in this study. Findings After the course was taught in this maker’s approach in two consecutive school years, some observations were reported. Students were enthusiastic in doing a series of assignments leading to the completion of a toy robot that follows a black line on the ground. In addition to enjoying the learning process by making tangible products, the students were excited to be able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they learned with the robots they made. Research limitations/implications The research results were based mainly on the instructor’s observations during the lectures and labs. Practical implications Lessons from this study can inspire other instructors to turn traditional engineering courses into maker courses to attract students who enjoy making. Industry should welcome engineering graduates to join the companies with more hands-on experiences they have gained from maker courses. Social implications Although the maker movement has attracted much attention in K12 education, there is little research that studies how this maker spirit can be incorporated in traditional engineering courses that focus mainly on theories or software. Originality/value Including electronics and mechanical components in programming assignments would bring surprising effects on students’ motivation in learning.