Logistics Education Research Articles

Local Search Heuristic for the Two-Echelon Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem in Educational Decision Support Systems

This study focuses on developing a heuristic for Decision Support Systems (DSS) in e-commerce logistics education, specifically addressing the Two-Echelon Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem (2E-CVRP). The 2E-CVRP involves using Urban Transshipment Points (UTPs) to optimize deliveries. To tackle the complexity of the 2E-CVRP, DSS can employ fast and effective techniques for visual problem-solving. Therefore, the objective of this work is to develop a local search heuristic to solve the 2E-CVRP quickly and efficiently for implementation in DSS. The efficiency of the heuristic is assessed through benchmarks from the literature and applied to real-world problems from a Brazilian e-commerce retailer, contributing to advancements in the 2E-CVRP approach and promoting operational efficiency in e-commerce logistics education. The heuristic yielded promising results, solving problems almost instantly, for instances in the literature on average in 1.06 s, with average gaps of 6.3% in relation to the best-known solutions and, for real problems with hundreds of customers, in 1.4 s, with gaps of 8.3%, demonstrating its effectiveness in achieving the study’s objectives.

Applying MCDM to evaluate benchmark scores in the logistics sector for the period 2021–2023: Application to universities in Vietnam

Choosing a university is a crucial decision for each field of study, as it significantly influences the quality of graduates. An important factor in this decision is the university’s annual benchmark scores. The benchmark score represents the minimum score required for admission. This study evaluates the benchmark scores in the logistics sector for several prominent universities in Vietnam during the period 2021–2023. The research process utilized data on the benchmark scores for the years 2021, 2022, and 2023. The weights of these benchmark scores were calculated using the Rank Order Centroid (ROC) method, and the Probability method was employed to compare the benchmark scores of the universities. The analysis identified C3 as the criterion with the highest importance, while U3 emerged as the top-ranked alternative. The two-stage comprehensive sensitivity analysis revealed that universities consistently ranked high or low regardless of the method used to calculate benchmark score weights or the method employed for ranking. Additionally, the smallest weight change that affected the overall Probability ranking was 4.61%. This study provides significant guidance for students in selecting a university for logistics studies and serves as a foundational reference for universities to assess their capabilities in logistics education, thereby fostering healthy competition among institutions.

An Educational Game to Learn Picking Techniques in Warehousing – WareMover

Background Serious games and game-based learning are widely used in education. Gaming in logistics education relies on serious gaming with no or less consideration on enjoyment. Intervention This study examines in a first step whether and if so, how (serious) games are used as part of logistics majors’ curricula at German universities. Based on the findings, an entertainment game about warehousing is developed and validated. Methods Warehousing is an application-based discipline in which the operation of different picking techniques has an impact on the order picking. To help students understand the impact of such techniques, the 2D game WareMover was developed. The open-access game combines education and entertainment with different gamification objects and can be played in singleplayer or multiplayer mode. In this competitive 2D game, the objective is to pick orders by navigating around the warehouse towards the right shelf and to click on the correct storage compartment. The player has to achieve the highest score, which is determined by the fastest and least erroneous delivery. Four different picking techniques can be used in two game modes. Results The results of a 14-player game session are presented. All players played both game variants with all picking techniques and completed a questionnaire. The players rated the game as user-friendly, entertaining, didactically useful, suitable for teaching and education, and engaging. In addition, the majority of players would play the game again and recommend it to others. Conclusion The open-source game WareMover can contribute to studies in the field of warehousing by teaching students about picking techniques and the differences between these techniques. The novel game approach of interpreting a serious game as an entertainment game can increase the enjoyment and motivation of the players.

Launching of the logistics double diploma program beetween Hungary and Kyrgyzistan: from start to teaching

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for education in the field of intralogistics, as companies began to treat this segment as a separate area, not just as part of procurement or storage. As a result, the demand for professionals specialized in this area has increased, not only in Europe but worldwide. The University of Miskolc, in collaboration with its former partner, the Kyrgyz State Technical University, has established a dual degree program with a significant emphasis on production logistics. This article presents the origin and background of the program, the initial challenges of course launches and how they were overcome, as well as providing insights into the future of logistics education.

Enhancing Multimodal Transportation Through Logistics Education

This qualitative study examines the effectiveness of logistics education within Indonesian transportation institutes' multimodal transportation programmes. Fifty cadets were analysed, revealing a positive perception of logistics education's importance and its significant impact on student competency and operational efficiency. Themes emerged highlighting cadets' strong understanding and application of logistical principles, leading to tangible improvements in transportation costs, service quality, and work processes. The findings underscore the critical role of logistics education in preparing students for careers in the transportation sector and improving the efficiency and sustainability of transportation systems. Recommendations include curriculum enhancement, professional development for educators, industry engagement, and the integration of technology. By implementing these recommendations, educational institutions can better align their programmes with industry needs and ensure graduates are equipped to address the sector's challenges. This research contributes to the discourse on transportation education, emphasising the importance of logistics education in shaping the future of multimodal transportation in Indonesia and beyond.

The constructivist approach as a concept of active learning and teaching of optimization processes at technical universities

As we move toward a more competitive global economy, the demand for highly qualified people to create and manage more efficient logistics systems, such as flows and management of materials or information, human flows, and supply chains, increases. Without logistics, the commercial world would grind to a halt. Businesses depend on logistics professionals to keep production and delivery moving forward which makes logistics education crucial. Companies expect their future employees to gain practical information, and to master what they are learning. Students must know how to apply what they learn. This is a reason why increasing importance is attributed to the constructivist approach to teaching and learning in university education. Through experiments or simulation of processes, and group work based on previous experience and knowledge, students better uncover the laws of phenomena. By actively engaging in the learning process, deeper and long-term applicable knowledge about the studied processes is acquired. The goal of this article is to implement the constructivist approach in the education of operational research and logistics at technical universities.

Exploring educational simulation platform features for addressing complexity in Industry 4.0: a qualitative analysis of insights from logistics experts

IntroductionThis study explores the transformative impact of Industry 4.0 on industrial operations, emphasizing the integration of advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and Big Data Analytics to enhance process optimization, automation, and connectivity. Despite its potential for efficiency, Industry 4.0 introduces significant complexities, challenging existing operational and decision-making frameworks. Addressing these challenges, the research investigates the role of simulation platforms in logistics, seeking to identify their critical attributes for effective complexity management. It highlights the need for innovative tools in system evaluation, performance measurement, and skill development, aiming to equip the workforce with essential Industry 4.0 competencies. Through qualitative insights from logistics experts, the study aims to offer practical recommendations for educators and industry professionals, contributing to the design and implementation of educational simulations that align with the intricate demands of Industry 4.0 logistics.MethodsThis study employs a qualitative content analysis approach to develop an Industry 4.0-adapted logistics simulator, leveraging the Asteraceae framework for digital game co-design and pedagogical reflection. Data were collected from six industry and academia experts through semi-structured interviews, designed around the framework’s key steps to explore simulator design, decision-making, impact, and skill development. Utilizing convenience sampling, the research engaged participants with experience in educational logistics platforms and simulators. Interviews were conducted online, with ethical considerations including informed consent. Transcription used OpenAI’s API for accuracy, followed by manual review. The analysis combined qualitative content with frequency analysis, employing Atlas.ti software to identify and code key simulation features as informed by expert insights. This methodology underscores a comprehensive approach to understanding and innovating logistics education for Industry 4.0, aiming to equip learners with necessary competencies through targeted simulation tools.ResultsThe study’s findings emphasize the critical role of simulation tools in Industry 4.0 logistics for risk mitigation, operational planning, and decision-making. Experts pointed out the significant benefits of simulations in providing safe spaces for experimentation, especially valuable for SMEs with limited access to advanced technologies. They advocated for simulators to incorporate current technological and e-commerce trends, suggesting a customizable business model based on diverse logistics requirements. Key insights included the necessity for adaptable simulation architectures to handle various operational variables, the importance of integrating multidisciplinary competencies like data analytics and strategic management, and the role of performance metrics in evaluating simulations and logistics operations. The analysis revealed essential features for an educational logistics simulator, highlighting the importance of operational knowledge, predictive analytics, and the need for a comprehensive tool that integrates technology, strategy, operations, and data analysis. This approach aims to equip users with the skills necessary for navigating the complexities of modern logistics, promoting a deep understanding of systems thinking and complex reasoning skills.DiscussionThe discussion centers on the essential requirement for a multidisciplinary approach in creating an educational logistics simulator for Industry 4.0, emphasizing the need for technological adaptability and operational efficiency. It highlights the importance of integrating advanced technologies and collaborative paradigms to enhance logistics operations and improve decision-making processes. The utility of simulation-based learning as a pedagogical tool is acknowledged, with an emphasis on its role in developing complex thinking and practical skills relevant to the digital transformation of the logistics sector. The discussion suggests that educational simulations are poised to play a pivotal role in preparing the workforce for Industry 4.0 challenges by bridging technological advancements and pedagogical strategies. However, it also points to the limitations of the current study, such as its sampling method and regional focus, and calls for future research to explore broader applications and the integration of comprehensive strategies to ensure the educational simulator’s effectiveness and relevance in a global context.

(Re-)shaping learning experiences in supply chain management and logistics education under disruptive uncertain situations

IntroductionDisruptive uncertain events often necessitate universities to abruptly shift from face-to-face to remote online learning, posing challenges to instructional quality and learning outcomes. Remote online instruction may lack social interaction, educational resources, and practical activities, hindering effective learning.MethodsThis study presents an experiential learning framework designed to foster active learning experiences amidst disruptive uncertain events. The framework incorporates such events as study situations to enhance student motivation and engagement. A methodology for designing learning experiences is proposed, with a focus on incorporating real-world disruptions into educational settings.ResultsA case study is presented, detailing the implementation of the framework in supply chain management and logistics education at a private university in Bolivia, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that the novel learning experience positively impacted student motivation and engagement, facilitating the achievement of learning outcomes.DiscussionThe initial implementation suggests that the novel learning experience positively impacted student motivation and engagement while achieving their intended learning outcomes. However, further instances of utilizing the proposed framework are necessary to ascertain its generalizability and effectiveness across diverse contexts and situations. Identifying similarities or invariances will help validate the applicability of this approach in different educational settings affected by disruptive uncertain events.

Developing learning skills through game-based learning in complex scenarios: A case in undergraduate logistics education

This study investigates the impact of game-based learning (GBL), an increasingly popular educational approach, on the development of self-directed learning (SDL) skills in complex scenarios, particularly in undergraduate logistics education. A key component of the three year study is LOST (Logistics Education Simulator), a serious game platform, deployed in an undergraduate engineering course in Mexico. An extensive literature review was carried out using Scopus to examine recent works published between 2019 and 2024, providing a state-of-the-art overview of the field. Subsequently, a survey based on the scale created by Fisher, King, and Tague (2001), known for its extensively evaluated internal consistency, revealed five distinct factors of self-directed learning. The findings underscore that the LOST platform significantly enhances self-directed learning, promoting the development of Self-management Skills, Openness to Learning Opportunities, Initiative and Independence in Learning, Self-concept as an Effective Learner, and Love of Learning. The students demonstrated a significant increase in their perception of these skills over the course of the study, highlighting the effectiveness of GBL in promoting such learning skills. These findings highlight the multidimensional nature of learning skills that can be fostered through GBL. The study concludes by discussing the vital role of GBL in complex scenarios, particularly in enhancing the development of self-directed learning skills in undergraduate logistics education.

Enhancing INCOTERMS Understanding among Undergraduate Students: The Impact of Innovative Teaching Strategies in Global Logistics Education

In global logistics education, a thorough understanding of International Commercial Terms (INCOTERMS) is vital for students preparing for careers in international trade. However, many undergraduate students struggle to fully comprehend and apply these terms, often due to traditional teaching methodologies. This study explores the impact of innovative teaching strategies, such as gamification, case-based learning, creative expression, and virtual simulations, on improving INCOTERMS comprehension. Using an intervention-based approach with 30 undergraduate students enrolled in a logistics program, the research employed interactive teaching methods including quizzes, games, and hands-on activities. Results indicated significant improvements in student engagement and understanding of INCOTERMS, highlighting the efficacy of diverse, active teaching strategies in global logistics education. These findings underscore the importance of integrating interactive approaches to foster deeper comprehension and prepare students for real-world applications of INCOTERMS in the logistics industry.

Use and impact of Kahoot in logistics education

Nowadays, the younger university students are increasingly using digital solutions, therefore teachers should turn to these solutions as well. One of the tools for this is to use an online platform instead of paper-based solutions for short end-of-class assessments. There are several such available software on the market, and this paper presents the use and results of Kahoot through two case studies. The details of the case studies also show the impact in logistics education.

Logistics Educational Items Required for Hospital Paramedics to Work in Disaster Medicine Settings.

Introduction:In Japan, the Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) is dispatched as an Emergency Medical Team (EMT) in major disasters. DMAT consists of a physician, nurse, and operations coordinators. The operations coordinators include all occupations other than physicians and nurses, and are responsible for activities to facilitate medical treatment, gathering information, establishing communications, and ensuring transportation. Therefore, the operations coordinator must have in-depth knowledge of all aspects. Operations coordinators with this knowledge are qualified as logistics team members in addition to DMAT certification. Paramedics receive pre-graduate training in medical care, transport, and coordination with other organizations, and many of their daily duties are related to these areas. However, there are few opportunities to learn about logistics. If paramedics are effectively trained in logistics, they are likely to play an active role as operational coordinators. However, logistics covers a wide range of topics, and there are few studies on items that require focused education. Therefore, this study examines the level of understanding of each logistics item among paramedics active in the field of disaster medicine to identify items that should be emphasized.Method:A questionnaire survey of 36 paramedics was conducted, all of whom hold both DMAT and logistics team certifications, to determine their level of understanding and the importance of each logistics item. The logistics items used in the survey are specified in the Logistics Specialist Certification System of the Japanese Society of Disaster Medicine. The collected questionnaire results were analyzed using SPSS statistical software.Results:Characteristic trends were obtained in the logistics items required of paramedics. Trends were also analyzed according to the age and work history of paramedics.Conclusion:The logistics education for paramedics needs to be enhanced in accordance with the trends obtained from the study. Specific studies on the means and timing of education will be needed in the future.

A Study on Competitiveness Improvement of Chittagong Container Port

Purpose - Market structure is crucial to identify as it defines the market states for new and existing container ports to perform within a given region. the study aims to compare the major ports in the Bay of Bengal in the context of Chittagong Port.
 Design/methodology/approach - For this study, the past 9 years of container volume data have been collected and analyzed through the HHI index, BCG matrix and shift effect analysis. Based on the analysis, this study has found that the Chittagong Port is in an oligopoly competitive market structure.
 Findings - The findings have shown that port in low market share and low growth in very recent years with the moderately concentrated ports HHI index. The shift effect analysis shows that the container volumes shifted from one port to another in the 2019 and 2020 periods. This study is the pioneer study in the Bay of Bengal region to identify the market structure, analyze market share and growth, and analyze the market concentration.
 Research implications or Originality - Future recommendations for the port authority is to take advantage of geolocation; attract international; tax exemption, faster clearance process, reduced waiting charges; increasing storage and technological machinery; promoting maritime logistics education; promoting Chittagong tourism; collaboration with other countries. Also, this study can be used as basic data for the establishment of a new supply chain between Korea and Southwest Asia for the Korean government and companies.

Assessing the Alignment between Logistics Education and the Need in the Field: A Necessary Condition Analysis

Assessing the Alignment between Logistics Education and the Need in the Field: A Necessary Condition Analysis

THE IMPACT OF LOGISTICS EDUCATION QUALITY ON STUDENTS’ SATISFACTION AND ATTITUDE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC PERIOD

The Covid-19 epidemic has spread rapidly since the day it first appeared and has turned into a global phenomenon and led universities to reorganize their existing systems. Logistics lessons’ applications could not implement in customs, airports, and seaports due to social distancing and isolation in itself which leads to negative impacts on logistics education quality. This study is aimed at analyzing the logistics education quality impact on logistics students' satisfaction and attitude during Covid-19 in state and foundation universities. A survey was conducted with 310 logistics students studying at five universities in Turkey during the Covid-19 outbreak. As a result of the research, the rapidly evolving global pandemic has affected the way logistics of education quality, students’ attitudes, and satisfaction during this crisis. In the Covid-19 outbreak, it was determined that students were not satisfied with the logistics education quality sub-factors "academical personal of logistics, education programs of logistics, measurement, and evaluation". The logistics education quality subfactors "teaching methods, internationalization, access, and approachableness of services had a positive effect on student attitude. In addition, it is envisaged that this study will develop an understanding of interdisciplinary cooperation and offer new solutions.

Student-Centered Curriculum Design and Evaluation in Logistics Management

Background: In this essay, we address an important issue in the logistics education discourse relating to student-centered curriculum design and evaluation. Methods: We adopt an integrative approach based on conceptual development and guided by constructive alignment. Results: We apply and elaborate our conceptual framework using a case of a teaching plan in logistics management. We also propose an evaluation strategy for our teaching plan in the form of a template. Conclusions: Our essay contributes to the logistics education discourse by using learning theories and developing curriculum design and evaluation guidelines that can be replicated by other educators.

Students Perception of ICT for Specific Purpose in The Logistics Industry

In today's dynamic and competitive world, logistics knowledge has become more complicated and knowledge intensive. Regarding the topic of TESOL in the logistic sector, which is the use of English as a foreign language and a current economic necessity, the use of English as a foreign language is one of the economic sources for boosting the employability of workers through superior communication skills. This study tries to answer the question of how students in the logistics industry perceive the use of ICT in English language learning. This research chapter addresses the importance of logistics education from the perspective of undergraduates. Using a quantitative methodology and survey design, the current study examined the frequency of ICT usage for purposes. The majority of students said that the usage of ICT makes it easier and more interesting for them to study English, is a good way for instructors to distribute learning materials, improves their speaking and listening abilities, and expands their vocabularies. Students and instructors can communicate, share, and discuss course materials and assignments effectively through the use of ICT and the logistics theme

The Challenge and Approach of Improving the Big Data Analysis Ability of Logistics Professionals

The development of the logistics industry has driven the explosive growth of logistics data. However, the market lacks skilled professionals to carry out source management, processing, analysis and mining of logistics data. Under the growing talent gap, the cultivation of big data talents has become a global realistic demand. This paper takes the logistics professionals trained in colleges and universities as the research object. We analyzes the difficulties of improving the big data analysis ability of logistics professionals from three aspects. A promotion approach for the big data analysis ability is proposed. The research believes that the training of big data thinking, big data analysis tools and cooperation between universities and enterprise should become the main means for colleges and universities to promote the high quality and sustainable development of the logistics education in the era of big data.

Insights into logistics and supply chain studies in Middle East

Due to recent supply disruptions, the corona crisis and the limited supply of all kinds of raw materials, components and goods due to global polarisation, the importance of logistics and supply chain management is boosting. This study is therefore a continuation of a study carried out in Slovenia and is investigating higher education study programs in the field of logistics and supply chain in the Middle East. It is oriented towards logistics, supply chains, management, and sustainability topics, which create core competencies for logistics leaders, supply chain managers, and future experts. Keywords were selected to identify key logistics, management and sustainability issues related to higher education sector in the Middle East. It was revealed that some countries are much more focused on company logistics and others more on supply chain challenges. It was revealed that some countries do not give any attention to one of the top priorities of global managers - corporate sustainability. To be able to supply a sufficient amount of logistics experts for managing current and future challenges of resilient supply, onshoring, increasing transparency, and fast response, Middle East countries should develop logistics education even more rapidly.

A review: The Role of Warehouse Laboratory for Higher Education

An unwell-prepared graduate from logistic education is being a key issue which has been being discussed by government, practitioners, education institutions and economic units as well as who will get benefits of this education by the possibility of obtaining a competent graduate. Warehouse laboratory is the solution for fulfilling the gap where competencies could be developed which is required by industry. This paper aims to explain the process of implementation and utilization of warehouse laboratory at the higher education Introduction. Hence, warehouse laboratory has a pivotal role in the development logistics education that is not only for education and research but also for preparing graduate students to be a competent workforce which is required by industry.