A Blended Project-Based Learning Program on Embedded Software Design with Collaboration Support Tools

Abstract

The present paper proposes a blended learning program on project-based embedded software design. The paper also clarifies the requirements and design of collaboration support tools for the proposed program. The authors have been conducting research in an attempt to implement e-Learning technology for project-based learning (PBL) on the development of embedded software. We have created a new program that blends face-to-face and e-Learning classes and have developed a computer-supported collaborative learning environment. An integrated repository tool and a unified search tool have been proposed and reported in KES2009. The requirements for additional functions for the collaboration between learners were clarified through a trial of the learning activities using these tools. In the present paper, these requirements are described, and the design of tools that satisfy these requirements is proposed. The tools include a review support tool and an online white-board system. A blended learning program using the developed tools is also proposed. In the proposed blended learning program, more than 80% of learning units can be investigated with e-Learning, while face-to-face discussion sessions must be conducted at each juncture. A trial of the proposed program has been carried out and a questionnaire survey has been conducted to evaluate the learning effect of the program and the usability of the tools. The results suggest that the proposed program is feasible for PBL on embedded software design and that the tools facilitate collaborative activities between learners and are effective for enhancing design ability.

The present research is supported by a grant through the Strategic Information and Communications R&D Promotion Programme (SCOPE) from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan.