IoT-Based Mixed Reality Laboratories in Applied Disciplines

Abstract

E-learning and blended learning have become an integral part of modern academic and educational systems. It provides easy access to educational opportunities for a very wide range of individuals to pursue their educational and rehabilitation goals. These educational systems have the potential to improve the quality of the teaching and learning process and raise the level of its performance to higher levels. Advances in communication technologies have led to a new approach of connectivity, known as the Internet of Things (IoT), where every device is connected to the network, so all objects can communicate with each other. These technologies help in developing e-learning infrastructure, especially in applied disciplines where special requirements are needed, such as acquiring specific technical skills and practices through training. Embedding Internet of Things and Mixed Reality technologies is the solution for developing e-learning and blended learning systems in applied disciplines. Moreover, applying such technologies can reduce the cost of education and professional qualification at both the institutional and individual learner levels. This paper presents designs for remote laboratories using Internet of Things and Mixed Reality technologies with examples of experiments in control engineering and renewable energy engineering. Keywords: E-learning, blended learning, Remote labs, Internet of things, Mixed reality, Virtual reality.