Abstract:

COVID-19 pandemic presents many challenges to universities, faculty, and students. Faculty are required to replace face-to-face classes with remote learning, and this replacement difficulty surges as faculty are further encouraged to continue lab classes online. This paper presents a high-quality remote learning EE senior project lab class, which retains most of the face-to-face lab design experience.

The remote class started with a particular logistic administration, including student group division, class discussion, and presentation: the logistics improved student communication, interaction, and online learning experience.

The rest of the class focused on the project design process. It was a unique three-part project that each student could do online: circuit simulation, PCB board layout design, and 3D package housing printing. Each student carried out their design work with online software. The individual student then joined a small group discussion and interaction to learn from each other and contribute their ideas through online chat or breakout room activities, which mimicked face-to-face class interaction time. In addition, each student group received the instructor’s feedback in the class breakout time and project evaluation with a preset grading rubric.

A students’ feedback survey was collected towards the end of the term. The feedback survey reflects 83% of students had a positive design experience. The group division with experienced members contributes a big part to success in the project. Students gain most design experience through the 3-part project of how a product design completion cycle. 78% of students are willing to pay between $0- $50 to send out the PCB board to fabricate. 83% of students considered the project is well suited for online teaching modality.

The design project described in this paper is not limited to the time of COVID-19, but it can also be offered as a standalone online design class. The unique design project goes through a complete design cycle of simulation, PCB board layout with real components, and package assembly through 3D printing. The class provides a full design cycle with hands-on experience of an electronic product, and students can expand the valuable design experience to other ideas.

Keywords:

Online/virtual laboratories, mobile learning, COVID19, distance learning, new project innovation.