Integrating Instrument Networking and Programming into Electronics Curricula: Design, Implementation, and Impact
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The development of electronics education requires continuously keeping pace with changes in pedagogical methods, hardware, and software, as well as with emerging laboratory concepts such as remote, virtual, and augmented reality. This paper proposes an open, curriculum-integrated approach to embed ICT competencies, specifically computer networking and programming, into electronics education and assesses its impact. We developed a networked measurement and information-processing system that students not only use but also learn about every aspect of its operation across our electronics courses. The system uses LXI-capable measurement instruments connected using principles of standard computer networks, enabling built-in remote-access capabilities and high scalability. Software for communication, instrument control, and purpose-built functions for electronics applications is implemented in Python 3. The software also handles data acquisition and local or remote post-processing. In this way, the system is open, versatile, and readily adaptable to future instrument developments. Integrating this system into the curriculum demonstrably enhanced students’ ICT, digital, and entrepreneurial competencies, aligning with the European Commission competency frameworks. Evaluation, using purpose-built questionnaires, indicated strong student reception across multiple system aspects and confirmed the approach relevance and applicability from the perspective of industry stakeholders.
Source: Information
DOI: 10.3390/info16121024
Authors: Amela Zekovic, Predrag Pejovic
Language: English
Subfield: Media Technology
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,930
OpenAlex ID: W4416593074