Using Mobile Devices to Facilitate Student Questioning in a Large Undergraduate Science Class

Asking scientific questions is the first practice of science and engineering listed in the Next Generation Science Standards. However, getting students to ask unsolicited questions in a large class can be difficult. In this qualitative study, undergraduate students sent SMS text messages to the instructor who received them on his mobile phone and via Google Glass. Using observations, coding of texts, and interviews, the researchers investigated the types and level of questions students asked and the perceptions of the instructor and TAs on how the messages were received. From the findings of this study, it is evident that students asked a wide variety of question types and levels. It would appear that important distinctions between voice and text questions are that: (a) a shy or insecure questioner can remain anonymous; (b) questions can be asked in an interactive, but not interruptive manner; (c) there is no time limit to answering questions; and (d) the record of questions on the instructor\u27s phone can be used to guide revision of lecture notes for future semesters

Affective tutoring systems: Enhancing e-learning with the emotional awareness of a human tutor

This paper introduces the field of affective computing, and the benefits that can be realized by enhancing e-learning applications with the ability to detect and respond to emotions experienced by the learner. Affective computing has potential benefits for all areas of computing where the computer replaces or mediates face to face communication. The particular relevance of affective computing to e-learning, due to the complex interplay between emotions and the learning process, is considered along with the need for new theories of learning that incorporate affect. Some of the potential means for inferring users’ affective state are also reviewed. These can be broadly categorized into methods that involve the user’s input, and methods that acquire the information independent of any user input. This latter category is of particular interest as these approaches have the potential for more natural and unobtrusive implementation, and it includes techniques such as analysis of vocal patterns, facial expressions or physiological state. The paper concludes with a review of prominent affective tutoring systems and promotes future directions for e-learning that capitalize on the strengths of affective computing

Applying a Coherent Academy Training Structure to Vertically Integrate Learning, Teaching and Personal Development in Materials Science and Engineering

An innovative academy structure has been applied to materials education in Swansea University, UK. The Materials Academy has multiple levels and layers, from the basic outreach and public engagement required to attract new through to doctoral training. The academy offers multiple paths for progress to all levels. With a diverse mix of talent in the participants, a range of backgrounds and experiences must be catered for in the learning environment, with teaching cycles continuously evaluated to ensure they are appropriate. From the earliest stages of engagement with the academy, learning is student led and industry demand driven. The aim is to fill skills gaps to create an employable workforce for the materials science and engineering industry and contribute positively to economic growth. This chapter described the approach taken at Swansea University, the driving force behind it, explained the features of each stage and interaction of the levels