Problem-based learning for the Civil Engineering Materials Resistance Course: A bet from the virtual education supported by technological Learning Management System (LMS) type platforms [Aprendizaje basado en problemas para el curso de resistencia de materiales de ingenieros civiles: Una apuesta desde la educación virtual apoyada en plataformas tecnológicas tipo LMS -Learning Management System-]

[No abstract available

Virtual education customized to learning styles and problem-based learning (PBL): A neural network-based approach [Educación virtual personalizada a estilos de aprendizaje y ABP: Una aproximación basada en redes neuronales]

[No abstract available

A novel energy-efficient machine to compress inorganic residues in eco-bricks as a sustainable construction strategy for low-cost housing

UNESCO has set the Sustainable Developing Goals (SDG) to promote good practices in different areas. The construction industry has evolving to the use of alternative and eco-friendly materials, enhancing the sustainable growth of the cities. One of the main social problems in developing countries arises on the lack of housing at affordable prices, this is reflected as a result of a situation of poverty and exclusion of low-income communities. The present work describes the development of a novel device for the compression of plastic waste in PET bottles, also denominated eco-bricks. The device allows the compaction of plastic laminates and sachets inside bottles of different sizes. Based on a social context, the compactor device was designed for manual operation without the use of electric power, portability, ease of usage and safe operation. Another outcome of this technology is the educational strategy based on the manufacturing of eco-bricks that promotes environmental responsibility that aims at reducing pollution and the indiscriminate and non-responsible use of non-renewable resources in urban and rural environments. The device was submitted for its consideration as an invention patent and therefore granted. © 2019 AISTI

Internet of things electromechanical method and device for new or installed gas stoves: Making home safier

Electronic devices have been dabbled into houses to perform automatic tasks and fulfill different needs such as illumination, cooking, air conditioning, surveillance, among others. Furthermore, those elements can collect data from the environment in order to be processed and give better products and services, so, Internet of Things capabilities arises to home, highly cohesive with domotics. However, for developing countries, smart appliances are expensive, and old fridges, washing machines, etc., are still operative, so they must not to be discarded. Other very used appliances are stoves, which work with heating methods like electrical resistances, electrical induction or natural gas. The last one is the most used in a plenty of countries, due to its advantages regarding cost, for instance. Nonetheless, bad manipulation can cause gas leakages, and furthermore, injuries to people and conflagrations, affecting human lives and assets. Thus, a need has been identified regarding gas safety of gas stoves, conserving the installed base. This work shows the results of the main research and design considerations of a new cutting-edge technology that protects people of bad manipulation of already installed or new gas stoves, including the Internet of Things in order to monitor in real-time possible gas leakages and take actions. © 2019 AISTI

Prospective vision on virtual education in AntioquiaColombia: Horizon 2050 [Visión prospectiva sobre la educación virtual en Antioquia-Colombia: Horizonte 2050]

Governments are devoting significant resources to propose strategies that disseminate and exploit into prospective studies. In 2019, the Government of Antioquia (Department located in Colombia) launched a program called 'Antioquia 2050', which it is based on a long-term planning process. It is a rigorous exercise to offer projections to new politicians and their future generations. One of the axes analyzed was education. This article presents a prospective study on virtual education in the Antioquia region (Colombia). The methodology of the study consisted of a participatory and integrative series of techniques mostly used in prospective exercises (panel of experts, Delphi method, scenarios). Some interesting data collected suggested the benefits of virtual platforms, by allowing the educational system to scale up at a lower cost and with greater reach. Evidence found in this research showed that higher education in 20 years would represent a basic and/or minimal condition in Antioquia. The connectivity of the human being with technology will facilitate the incorporation of virtual learning mechanisms from everyday life in a ubiquitous way; at any time and place in their daily lives. The results of this study were shared in the 'Summit of wise men (Cumbre de visionarios)', an event that took place at the end of 2019. Additionally, the study is also part of the research project 'Adaptive learning management tool based on problems to enhance collaborative work in virtual courses at university level', co-financed by Colciencias (Proposal Call 8042018). © 2020 AISTI