Computer Engineering Students Research Articles

Development of the Bipolar Junction Transistor Diagnostic Test (BJTDT) to explore the second-year undergraduate Myanmar electronic and Thai electrical engineering students’ understanding of BJT working principles and applications

ABSTRACT A bipolar junction transistor (BJT) and its operation are fundamental concepts for the understanding of power electronics (industrial electronics), transistor-transistor logic (TTL), electronic switching, and signal amplification in modern electronics. Previous research showed that non-major engineering, computer, electronic, and electrical engineering students could not understand the basic concepts involved in a BJT. This paper describes the development of a two-tier diagnostic test, the test’s administration, limitations, the participants’ detailed context, and findings from a study that explores Myanmar and Thai second-year undergraduate students’ understanding of BJT working principles and applications. The results revealed that many students in both countries had the same alternative conceptions about collector current in each operation mode of the BJT. Some alternative conceptions differ from the previous research, such as a) the collector current does not depend on the base current in cut-off mode, and b) changing the collector current does not depend on the base current in active mode, but it depends on the collector supply voltage. These research findings provide valuable information and instruments for teachers to insight, prevent, and correct the alternative conceptions proposed by students.

Boosting English Motivation with Mobile Tech: Action Research Among Engineering Students

Boosting English Motivation with Mobile Tech: Action Research Among Engineering Students

Examining the Foreign Language Writing Experiences of Computer Engineering Students

<i>Identifying the relation between the processes of programming and foreign language writing may lead to new directions for programming language and natural language focused instructional design. The present qualitative case study supported by quantitative data investigated foreign language writing experiences of computer engineering students taking an object-oriented programming course. Forty-five sophomores learning programming and academic English simultaneously in a foundation university in Ankara, Turkey, were selected purposefully for the case study. There were two data sources (students’ opinions and documents) and three data collection tools (a semi-structured interview, a short diary, and a composition. In terms of the findings of the research, four themes were obtained; however, only the use of metacognitive strategies will be explained in detail due to the length of the study. Participants stated that they feel the positive effects of programming experience on the use of self-evaluation strategy and that there are similarities and differences between the processes of programming and foreign language writing. Participants’ views on the effect of programming on foreign language writing did not differ according to their writing and programming performance scores. Participants stated that programming experience may have an effect on the use of metacognitive language learning strategies in the writing process. Upon analyzing participants’ comments, it is understood that programming experience does not hinder the use of metacognitive strategies but has a role in supporting and reinforcing their use. It is suggested that multiple case studies be done for similar views on the effects of programming and that each finding be proven by quantitative studies. </i>

Evaluation of Students' Achievement in the Development of Innovative Learning Tools for PPG Computer Engineering and Informatics Students Using the Rasch Model

This research aims to measure students' performance from the Teacher Professional Education Program (PPG) in Category 1 Batch 2 Computer and Informatics Engineering at Manado State University in 2023 using the Rasch Model. The Rasch Model was chosen as a measurement method because it can provide a more accurate picture of individual student abilities, as well as identify the level of difficulty and differentiating power of each evaluation item. The research method involves collecting student performance data through various evaluation instruments, such as written exams, projects, and practical assignments. The collected data is then analyzed using the Rasch Model to evaluate the quality of the measurements and understand the extent to which the evaluation instrument can describe students' true abilities. The research results are expected to provide in-depth insight into the abilities of PPG students in Category 1 Batch 2 Computer Engineering and Informatics, as well as provide recommendations for improvements to the evaluation instruments used. Applying the Rasch Model in measuring student performance is expected to increase objectivity and accuracy in assessing students' abilities, which in turn can support improving the quality of education at Manado State University.

Computer science and engineering students’ self-directed learning strategies and satisfaction with online learning

There is an increasing need for computer science and engineering (CSE) online education. This study examined CSE online learners’ perceptions of self-directed learning (SDL) readiness, strategies, and satisfaction. The researchers surveyed 225 students and conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 online CSE students. The quantitative survey data and the qualitative interview data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, respectively. The findings were as follows: (1) Both extrinsic motivation strategies (e.g., future career development, building a learning routine) and intrinsic motivation strategies (e.g., interest in learning) were utilized; (2) Diverse metacognition strategies (e.g., assignments, quizzes, and tests, discussing with peers, tracking progress, staying in touch with professors and teaching assistants) and cognitive strategies (e.g., watching recorded lectures, taking notes, reading books, seeking out information) were used to monitor learning; (3) Time-management (e.g., priority, checklist, fixed schedule, time-block for study) and resource management strategies (e.g., focused on lectures, textbook reading) were leveraged; (4) Specific designs or instruction promoted students’ SDL skills, such as access to documented learning materials, reminders sent from instructors, availability of the instructor, group interaction, and flexibility, and (5) Student satisfaction depended on the design of the course. The advantages and disadvantages of online learning were identified. The findings indicated that the instruction strategies and online course design are critical for CSE students’ SDL.

Creative learning in final year students in computer engineering: A case study of the University of Matanzas

The training of creative computer professionals is considered a strategic process in different countries because it is essential for the computerization of society. This paper proposes an approach to the study of creative computer science learning for the digital transformation of modern society. The aim of the research was to evaluate the creative learning of computer science during the training of computer science professionals. An instrument derived from previous research and metrics was applied to evaluate creative learning in the two groups of terminal years of the computer engineering course at the University of Matanzas with a mixed paradigm. The quantitative analysis diagnosed that more than sixty-five percent of the students are evaluated as poor and fair in both years. The qualitative analysis revealed the inadequacies of the teaching staff in the use of computer science teaching approaches, and the four stages of formation of creative learning in computer science in the degree course: pre-university stage, basic stage, professional stage and research stage. They also revealed three key factors in the formation of creative learning in computer science: the integration of subjects, the solution of real projects, and the mainly emotional support provided by teachers and other professionals to students during their integration into the computerization of organizations.

Screening the Possible Mental Health Issues in Adolescents

Abstract: The abstract reflects the collective decision of a group of computer engineering students who are passionate about exploring the intersection of technology and clinical psychology for young people. They see the transformative potential of data from insights to use technology to increase the efficiency and accessibility of health promotion for young people. The basis of their approach is a commitment to technological development and they aim to create advanced tools and platforms that engage young people digitally, leading to mental tests, that are more supportive and effective. Familiar with many aspects of youth health, these students are eager to collaborate. They believe that collaboration with professionals in fields such as psychology, social work, medicine and education is essential to develop solutions to mental health problems and mental challenges. Students emphasized ethical considerations such as privacy, consent, and technology provision at the center of their efforts. Ultimately, these briefs demonstrate their firm belief in the potential of computer engineering expertise to shape the future of youth mental health support, as well as the goal of promoting youth health and recovery through assessment, better use, and empowerment.

Conceptualizing the Sample Mean: Insights for Computer Engineering Students in the Learning Process

Conceptualizing the Sample Mean: Insights for Computer Engineering Students in the Learning Process

Improvement Competency of Teachers and Students to Improve Capabilities in Security Awareness Aspects at SMK Pustek Serpong

Program Kemitraan Kepada Masyarakat (PKM), we propose in PUSTEK Serpong Vocational School that is targeted is Computer and Network Engineering (TKJ) students. Until now there have been several obstacles that occurred during the implementation and learning activities, namely in the previous curriculum there were materials and teaching materials for Network Security and since 2013 the curriculum and teaching materials have disappeared, and there is a need for discussion and material. In the form of learning modules for Network Security competencies. The results of this PKM are expected to gain an increase in scientific capacity and competence by 80% for Network Security training at the PUSTEK Serpong Vocational School. So that at the end of this PKM activity, the proposer hopes and tries with the knowledge and application of the training provided to students, to be able to motivate and provide Information Communication Technology (ICT) knowledge, especially in the field of Computer Network technology and Network Security, so that future students can be prepared use in the world and work industry.

Can Students without Prior Knowledge Use ChatGPT to Answer Test Questions? An Empirical Study

With the immense interest in ChatGPT worldwide, education has seen a mix of both excitement and skepticism. To properly evaluate its impact on education, it is crucial to understand how far it can help students without prior knowledge answer assessment questions. This study aims to address this question as well as the impact of the question type. We conducted multiple experiments with computer engineering students (experiment group: n =41 to 56), who were asked to use ChatGPT to answer previous test questions before learning about the related topics. Their scores were then compared with the scores of previous-term students who answered the same questions in a quiz or exam setting (control group: n =24 to 61). The results showed a wide range of effect sizes, from -2.55 to 1.23, depending on the question type and content. The experiment group performed best answering code analysis and conceptual questions but struggled with code completion and questions that involved images. However, the performance in code generation tasks was inconsistent. Overall, the ChatGPT group’s answers lagged slightly behind the control group’s answers with an effect size of -0.16. We conclude that ChatGPT, at least in the field of this study, is not yet ready to rely on by students who do not have sufficient background to evaluate generated answers. We suggest that educators try using ChatGPT and educate students on effective questioning techniques and how to assess the generated responses. This study provides insights into the capabilities and limitations of ChatGPT in education and informs future research and development.

Task-Based Language Teaching based on Audiolingual Method to Promote Students’ Speaking Achievement

This present study was an attempt to examine whether a task-based language teaching based on audiolingual method improves students’ speaking achievement and to examine which aspect of speaking improves the students’ speaking achievement most. This research was conducted to 34 computer and network engineering students of the eleventh grade of SMK Ma’arif Sindang Ayu by using purposive sampling. The data were analysed quantitatively. The result presented the value of sig. (2-tailed) = 0.000 < α=0.05. as well as t-value= 14.606 > t-table=2.042. It means that H0 was rejected and Ha was accepted. It was implied that the implementation of task-based language teaching based on audiolingual method significantly improved students’ speaking achievement. Besides, the aspect of speaking which improved the most was fluency in which had the highest gain score among other aspects of speaking.

The importance of the knowledges from different kind of learnings of computer engineering students and strategies applied by professors from TecNM Tizimín Campus

The objective of this research project is to know and describe the different learning styles of the students from computer engineering educational offer at National Technological Institute of Mexico Campus Tizimín, using the model proposed by Honey Alonso; this with the importance of identifying if there is a relationship between the career and the strategies used by the teachers in the classroom. The data collection technique was through two questionnaires; one of them directed to students and the other directed to professors. Was considered a sample of 114 students from all semesters from computer engineering and other considered a sample 10 professors belonging to the computer engineering academy. The results obtained have important implications for educational practice and the design of educational policies that promote personalized and student-centered learning.

Exploring User Experience and Usability in a Metaverse Learning Environment for Students: A Usability Study of the Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, and Society (AIIS)

The metaverse, a rapidly evolving research area, is a virtual, interconnected universe that seamlessly integrates digital and physical realms, facilitating immersive experiences, social interaction, and economic activities across various fields, including computer science, business, and education. Despite its potential to transform current pedagogies and learning experiences through engaging, interactive, and fascinating educational techniques, research is limited in exploring its application, usability, and user experience, particularly for Thai undergraduate students in learning computer engineering courses. In response, we designed and developed an innovative metaverse-based learning system called the AIIS collaborative learning interface, tailored to European undergraduate students. While the original intent of AIIS was to cater to medical students, in this study, our objective was to assess its usability and applicability for computer science and engineering students, specifically focusing on the Asian demographic. After an initial pilot with European students in their local context, the research was extended to Thailand, where 21 Thai undergraduate students evaluated the platform’s usability. The observations from this study indicate that AIIS provides a dynamic, user-friendly learning environment. Nevertheless, the evaluation process unveiled some usability flaws that offer informative directions for future enhancements. Drawing from our observations, we formulated usability guidelines to guide designers and developers toward crafting more efficient metaverse systems, particularly those intended for educational use. Our results also underline the considerable promise that metaverse technologies hold for advancing higher education globally.

Estimation of Interaction Time for Students with Vision and Motor Problems when Using Computers and E-Learning Technology

Students with disabilities can attend online education using virtual learning platforms and assistive technology adapted to their personal needs. However, access is not enough to avoid difficulties as they tend to require more time for interaction with learning resources. Analysis of the literature suggests that there is relevant interest among researchers in exploring the interaction time required by students with disabilities. The aim of this paper is to explore the average time required by students with disabilities for interaction with questionnaires, the most typical e-learning resource, in comparison to students without disabilities. This is especially relevant for computer and telecommunication engineering students since all of their teaching activities are computer-related. The average time required for interaction is estimated through empirical testing with 60 students filling out a questionnaire while attending two courses on digital technology in a total of four editions. The sample included students with three types of disability as well as non-disabled students as a control group, with ages ranging from 22 to 58. Results showed time ratios of 2.92, 1.88, and 1.58 times, respectively, for blind, partially sighted, and reduced motor capability students, compared to students without disabilities. Although the results are robust, the small sample of the reduced motor capability students and the variability of capabilities for this group recommend further research with additional samples for this type of disability. It is also recommended to continue experimentation with additional types of e-learning resources.

Attributes and Entrepreneurial Intention in University Students of Electrical Engineering and Computing Sciences

<italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Contribution:</i> This article analyzes the elements that determine entrepreneurial intention (EI) in electrical and computer engineering students of a private university in <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Ecuador. <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Background: There is a lack of studies examining the EIs of university students in electrical engineering and computing sciences, where EI is influenced by elements, such as personal attributes, the student’s social assessment of the characteristics of entrepreneurs, and the perception of professions in society, including business activity. <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Research Questions: Are personal attributes positively associated with EI? Is the EI of university students influenced by social profession valuation? Is the EI of university students influenced by perceptions of several attributes of the entrepreneur? <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Methodology: A questionnaire was administered to 570 students to test the model, and a structural equation model from partial least squares (PLS) was used. <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <i>Findings:</i> The results positively associate personal attributes, in addition to factors, such as gender and family, with EI. On the other hand, the social valuation of the entrepreneur in the profession and the social valuation of the entrepreneurs’ characteristics do not have a relationship with EI. The results suggest promoting the personal attributes of students through entrepreneurship education programs, linking the presence of entrepreneurs in academic activities and the transfer of knowledge from the university to the business sector, thus strengthening the entrepreneurial profile among students and increasing the positive image of entrepreneurs.

Effects of a Multimedia-Enhanced GE Course on Undergraduate Computer Engineering Students’ Development of Reading Skills and Growth Mindset

<italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Contribution:</i> Research shows that nontechnical subjects like the English language have been neglected in computer science/engineering (CS/CE) education research. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a technology-enhanced general english (GE) course that exposed CE students to multimodal input during the prereading phase to develop their reading skills and growth mindset. <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <i>Background:</i> A wide range of technological affordances have been utilized and researched in teaching CE technical courses, however, English as an invaluable asset in CE students’ academic and professional success is given lower priority. <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <i>Research Questions:</i> Do multimedia-enhanced prereading activities have a significant impact on CE students’ development of reading skills and growth mindset? What are CE students’ perceptions of multimedia-enhanced reading instruction? <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <i>Methodology:</i> The study compares the effects of incorporating multimedia in the prereading phase of a GE course with a conventional methodology. 137 undergraduate CE students participated in the study. Reading skills and growth mindset were assessed before and after the intervention. Qualitative data were obtained through structured interviews with 18 students of the experimental groups. <p xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"> <i>Findings:</i> Significant improvements in two reading skills, i.e., skimming and scanning were observed after the experiment. The effect size of the intervention was large for skimming, indicating that multimedia videos made understanding the gist of meaning easier for CE students. This finding was verified by the qualitative data as well. Also, the experiment had a significant impact on developing CE students’ growth mindset, letting them vision their intelligence and talent as being fluid and malleable and, thus, changeable by effort and hard work.

Implementation of PjBL With Remote Lab Enhances the Professional Skills of Engineering Students

<italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Contribution:</i> This article describes one approach to foster technical skills (Digital Electronics) and professional skills (critical thinking, problem solving, communication, and collaboration) for Computer Engineering students in a fully remote way. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Background:</i> Engineering competencies development requires practical activities. Besides the technical skills, professional skills such as communication are necessary in the workplace. <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Intended Outcomes:</i> When compared to face-to-face offering, the fully remote course must have no statistically relevant differences in terms of student performance. The course must also support the enhancement of professional skills (e.g., collaboration). <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Application Design:</i> This study presents a comparison of the face-to-face (one year) and the fully remote (two years) Digital Electronics lab offerings. A course organization framework is proposed with two blocks: 1) controlled experiments and 2) projects in groups of two students. The study investigates how Project-Based Learning and Peer Assessment are perceived by students in the fully remote offering. A total of 110 students participated in the years 2019 (face-to-face), 2020, and 2021 (fully remote). <italic xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink">Findings:</i> Students in the second remote course offering (2021) presented a higher performance in their projects than face-to-face students (2019). Besides the student performance and technical skills development, it was observed that problem solving and collaboration, professional skills could be enhanced according to the students’ perceptions. However, the same did not occur for critical thinking or communication professional skills even with the Peer Assessment and project pitches. The main concern is the high workload for students.

VOCATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS' ABILITY TO SOLVE WORD PROBLEMS IN THE TOPIC OF LINEAR EQUATIONS SYSTEM WITH TWO VARIABLES

Problem-solving is a mathematical skill that students need to develop to solve challenges in everyday life. However, this ability has yet to be fully mastered by students. Therefore, this study analyzes the problem-solving skills of ten-grade private Vocational High School students in Sragen, Central Java, Indonesia, particularly in the Linear Equations System with Two Variables (LESTV). This study used a descriptive qualitative method involving 25 Computer and Network Engineering students (CNE). The problem-solving indicators used are understanding the problem, devising a plan, carrying out the plan, and looking back. This study grouped students into three levels based on the results of the Mid Semester Assessment (MSA) of students' initial abilities, namely low, medium, and high initial ability levels. Based on the analysis, this study indicates that students with low initial ability levels are less able to understand problems and the other stages. Students with a moderate level of initial ability can meet the indicators of understanding the problem and devising a plan. Students with a high level of initial ability fulfill all problem-solving indicators. Students have been able to understand problems, devise a plan, carry out the plan, and look back. Students with a high level of initial ability can analyze and conclude the results of the answers correctly, accompanied by re-examining the solutions they have obtained.

PELATIHAN DASAR PEMROGRAMAN VISUAL DI SMK AL-IHSAN BATUJAJAR

The purpose of this community service is to teach basic training on visual basic programming. Visual Basic programming is a programming language studied by Informatics Engineering and Computer Engineering students. Visual basic is a computer programming language that is directive or commands that can be understood by the computer to carry out certain commands. Community service carried out by TEDC Bandung Polytechnic students held training for students of SMK Al-Ihsan Batujajar on Basic Visual Basic Programming. This is related to the subjects available at the school, namely Windows-based Programming Subjects. The method implemented by TEDC Polytechnic students is community service in the form of training. The result of this community service is that students of SMK Al-Ihsan Batujajar can understand and implement the results of training in Windows-based Programming subjects. The conclusion of this community service is that students are able to understand and re-implement the material that has been taught by using existing facilities.

Affordances and agency in students’ use of online platforms and resources beyond curricular boundaries

ABSTRACT This study explored how agency is expressed when undergraduate students cross curricular boundaries to learn software development by realising affordances enabled by resources on online platforms. The study employed a qualitative research design based on individual stimulated recall interviews with 27 computer and software engineering students. The hybrid thematic analysis employed an ecological framework in which the actions the students performed during software development tasks were interpreted in relational terms. The results reveal multiple interrelated affordances that were realised as the students learnt by using various resources on different online platforms. Agency was expressed primarily through students pursuing specific objectives related to their learning across platforms and curricular boundaries and was shared and distributed across people and the environment. The findings highlight the idea that boundaries are formed and crossed based on how people experience the environment, which, in turn, is enabled or constrained by the resources used.