The LAB@FUTURE Project - Moving Towards the Future of E-Learning

This paper presents Lab@Future, an advanced e-learning platform that uses novel Information and Communication Technologies to support and expand laboratory teaching practices. For this purpose, Lab@Future uses real and computer-generated objects that are interfaced using mechatronic systems, augmented reality, mobile technologies and 3D multi user environments. The main aim is to develop and demonstrate technological support for practical experiments in the following focused subjects namely: Fluid Dynamics - Science subject in Germany, Geometry - Mathematics subject in Austria, History and Environmental Awareness – Arts and Humanities subjects in Greece and Slovenia. In order to pedagogically enhance the design and functional aspects of this e-learning technology, we are investigating the dialogical operationalisation of learning theories so as to leverage our understanding of teaching and learning practices in the targeted context of deployment

Process membership in asynchronous environments

The development of reliable distributed software is simplified by the ability to assume a fail-stop failure model. The emulation of such a model in an asynchronous distributed environment is discussed. The solution proposed, called Strong-GMP, can be supported through a highly efficient protocol, and was implemented as part of a distributed systems software project at Cornell University. The precise definition of the problem, the protocol, correctness proofs, and an analysis of costs are addressed

Special Session on Industry 4.0

No abstract available

Politeness and face in digitally reconfigured e-learning spaces

This paper has two starting points. The first is a theorization about the way in which “rhetorical space” is reshaped in asynchronous, online, learning environments. In particular, an asynchronous bulletin- board (ABB) discussion offers both opportunities and constraints for teaching and learning. The learning that occurs will be affected by the affordances implicit in the design of the conversational space itself and the communicative practices engaged in by both teachers and students. The second starting point is a small case study, utilizing action research and discourse analytical strategies, whose research participants were the author and students involved in “delivering” and “receiving” an online education course at post-graduate level using asynchronous discussion. The course, taught in English, had a mix of Chinese students (for whom English was an additional language) and native English speakers. The paper will report on students’ perceptions of what worked for them and what didn’t in respect of this elearning environment. It will also use concepts such as politeness, face and positioning to analyse aspects of the participants’ communicative practices and will draw conclusions from these in respect of how successful learning can occur in elearning environments with multicultural and multilingual students. It will make connections between the findings of this case study and other research on asynchronous, web-based learning and will makes some suggestions about what is needed in respect of the future research agenda

Slip and Adhesion in a Railway Wheelset Simulink Model Proposed for Detection Driving Conditions Via Neural Networks

Constantly enlarging operation of locomotives with a very high tractive power in modern railway transport has caused problems with optimal supplying torque from motor to wheel-sets. Losses emerging with inadequate torque values lead to wheel slipping connected with excessive wear and limited acceleration. In models simulating dynamics of torque transmission from the drive units to wheels, the most important are the submodel of the drive and the submodel of balance between traction forces and drive resistances. Some issues of this field studied within a PhD program and SGS (CTU Students Grant Competition) has been focused on increasing quality of these submodels. This contribution is aimed at an innovated part in the existing Simulink model utilizing new data sources and modeling techniques. This improvement supports application of operating point detection methods based on machine learning techniques. New control facilities provided with pulse-width modulated frequency control of the asynchronous motor will be used for automatic submission of optimal operating points. The idea of utilization of via simulation obtained data is an on-line training of polynomial neural unit as an approximation of current driving conditions.Neustále narůstající provoz lokomotiv s velmi vysokým trakčním výkonem v moderní železniční dopravě způsobuje problémy s přenosem optimálního hnacího momentu z motoru na dvojkolí. Ztráty vyplývající z nevhodných hodnot točivého momentu vedou k prokluzu kol spojeným s nadměrným opotřebením a omezeným zrychlením. V modelech simulujících dynamiku přenosu točivého momentu z pohonné jednotky na dvojkolí jsou nejdůležitější submodely pohonu a rovnováhy mezi trakčními silami a jízdními odpory. Výzkum prováděný v rámci doktorských studijních programů a SGS (Studentská grantová soutěž ČVUT) se zaměřuje na zvyšování kvality těchto submodelů. Tento příspěvek je zaměřen na inovovanou část v existujícím Simulink modelu využívajícím nové zdroje dat a technik modelování. Nové možnosti regulace zajištěné pulzně-šířkovou frekvenční regulací asynchronního motoru budou použity pro automatické poskytnutí optimálních provozních bodů. Představa využití simulací získaných dat je on-line učení polynomické neuronové jednotky jako aproximace současných jízdních podmínek

Instant messaging clients - Relaxed, free & enjoyable English learning and training tools

In a demanding world of using English as a second language, computer technology and the internet are being dominantly used as they provide an incredible boost to language learning environment. At present, we can experience a more exciting way of learning a language by taking the advantages of the Instant Messaging Networks widely available online. This latest incarnation of the online chat is one of the communication methods that has proven to be a very good complement to the ways in which we communicate, both privately and professionally. These brilliantly invented instruments such as Skype, Yahoo Messenger and et cetera are a godsend to those who like to seek knowledge and to improve their English. This paper aims to examine the effectiveness of these so called ‘eclectic communicators’ in second language learning; focusing more on their functions as relaxing, and enjoyable language learning tools in a higher educational setting. This qualitative paper begins by highlighting current literature in the area of computer mediated communication (CMC) learning environments in second language use and development. It also discusses some of the issues and challenges related to this matter. In conclusion, this paper provides an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of instant messaging in educational settings especially in second language learning environment