Project-Based Learning Laboratory for Teaching Embedded Systems

Abstract

This paper presents a project-based learning laboratory for the teaching of embedded systems. The main objectives are to encourage students studying the embedded systems course in developing hardware solutions for real engineering problems and to include aspects of other courses studied within the academic programmes. One of the aims of project-based learning (PRBL) is to integrate different courses in the achievement of a common objective, within a multidisciplinary course of the academic programme. In the present case, this module is the final project of the embedded systems course. The project in question concerns a temperature control system for an industrial drier, equipped with a remote system for configuration and data acquisition. The design of the drier, as well as elaboration of the entire electronic system involving drivers and sensors, was undertaken by the students using a kit with a microcontroller specific for the development of embedded systems. The results of opinion surveys conducted with the students following implementation of the PRBL proposal were used to validate the procedure. Full details of the development and results of the project are provided, with the aim of assisting professors and students of similar courses.

Project-based learning applied to an embedded systems course

“…All details associated with the project (implemented in 2012.2) are presented in Fernandes. 30 Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the projects developed by the students in semesters 2012.2 and 2013.2, respectively. In 2012.2, the project involved control of the…”

Experience on Implementing a Project for Educating Students on Runaway Reaction Dynamics

“…To evaluate the effectiveness of this combined project on student learning towards the defined learning objectives, we developed a survey based on similar PjBL approaches [6][7][8][9][10][11][12]. The survey is divided into four sections as follows:…”

“…Project-based learning (PjBL) is an interactive studentcentered learning strategy that has proven effective in providing realistic context to the students, helping them to integrate knowledge from lectures, and developing teamwork and communication skills [7][8][9][10][11]. In addition, a multicourse project offers the advantage of integrating different concepts under the same context [12].…”

Embedded System Practicum Module for Increase Student Comprehension of Microcontroller

“…Developing tools that support model-based construction and delivery of sophisticated education that assists students and practioners master the complexity of developing embedded software and systems has been underway for several years, and it can be observed significant positive changes in the Vanderbilt University, America students give feedback, on the senior design project has been extremely positive [2]. The result of the student of University of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil regarding the entire methodology employed in the class, it could be concluded that the Project-Based Learning Laboratory for Teaching Embedded Systems methodology was well received, since score 4 or 5 was given in more than 90%of the responses [3].…”