Abstract:

The options to impart embedded system skills have changed tremendously due to the current social distancing situation. The established didactic concepts used until the global pandemic are undermined by the elimination of the possibility to do practical courses in presence as well as the lack of access to an IoT (Internet of Things) laboratory.

This paper therefore deals with the idea of how an overhaul of the Embedded Systems course at the University of Applied Sciences “Hochschule Ruhr West” not only means that the module goals can still be achieved, but also offers a genuine added value. It is examined how the introduction of a remote lab, in combination with a collaborative development software for learning groups, can provide an incentive for the students. Through this, they are supplied with more practical and profund knowledge in the development of embedded systems.

This new kind of approach uses real time peer group code editing, peer-to-peer videoconferencing and distributes, via MQTT server, interacting hardware development as integral part of a course concept to improve the motivation and learning output of students.

The approach will be further developed using accompanying surveys throughout the module. Moreover, the course results will be compared with those of previous years with the help of evaluation criteria. In addition, an expert survey of students who completed the course in its old form will evaluates the new course concept.

Keywords:

Blended learning, embedded system, IoT, collaboration, distance learning, MQTT, didactic concept, remote lab.