Em-Droid: A Visual m-Learning Platform to Teach and Learn Embedded Systems in Introductory University Stages

摘要

Recently, the m-learning has gained an important place in the educational scenario due to the mediation between the technology, the learning and the student. Furthermore, some important reports in education as the NMC Horizon Report: 2017 Higher Education Edition states that the m-learning is a key methodology that could foster the access to the education around the world. In this context, this paper describes to Em-Droid, a m-learning platform to learn and teach embedded systems focused on introductory courses in electronic engineering or electrical engineering. Em-Droid uses algorithm visualizations (AVs) through Blockly, a real-time C language converter and a proposed development board with a microcontroller (ATmega328p) in order to the students design and implement their algorithms in hands-on activities. Also, the students can see the C language code for their algorithms in real-time. In this way, the platform allows to improve the algorithmic thinking and the motivation of the students in the mentioned area. Currently, the platform is being tested in our introductory courses in the program of Technology in Electronics at Uniminuto university.