Authors:
Nistal, Martin Llamas and Castro, Manuel and Lorenzo, María García
Abstract:
Discusses the scope, content, and policies of the publication.
Volume 8 - Issue 1 - EN
Online Course on the History of Algorithms
Authors:
Lopez, Alfonsa García and Fernandez, Rosa María Pinero and Fernandez, Puerto Ramírez
Abstract:
This paper describes the objectives, content, learning methodology, and results of an online course on the History of Algorithms for engineering students at Polytechnic University of Madrid. This course is conducted in a virtual environment based on Moodle, with a student-centered educational model, which includes a detailed planning of learning activities. Our experience indicates that this subject is highly motivating for students and the virtual environment facilitates competencies development.
Predicting School Failure and Dropout by Using Data Mining Techniques
Authors:
Marquez-Vera, Carlos and Morales, Cristóbal Romero and Soto, Sebastián Ventura
Abstract:
This paper proposes to apply data mining techniques to predict school failure and dropout. We use real data on 670 middle-school students from Zacatecas, México, and employ white-box classification methods, such as induction rules and decision trees. Experiments attempt to improve their accuracy for predicting which students might fail or dropout by first, using all the available attributes; next, selecting the best attributes; and finally, rebalancing data and using cost sensitive classification. The outcomes have been compared and the models with the best results are shown.
Applying Recommendations to Align Competences, Methodology, and Assessment in Telematics, Computing, and Electronic Engineering Courses
Authors:
Hernandez-Leo, Davinia and Oliver, Verónica Moreno and Dodero, Juan M. and Pardo, Abelardo and Romero-Ternero, Maricarmen and Dimitriadis, Yannis and Asensio-Perez, Juan I.
Abstract:
The alignment between competences, teaching-learning methodologies, and assessment is a key element of European higher education. This paper presents the efforts carried out by six telematics, computer science and electronic engineering education teachers toward achieving this alignment in their subjects. In a joint work with pedagogues, a set of recommended actions are identified. A selection of these actions are applied and evaluated in the six subjects. The cross analysis of the results indicates that the actions allow students to better understand the methodologies and assessments planned for the subjects, facilitate (self-) regulation, and increase students' involvement in the subjects.
Fingerprint Verification System in Tests in Moodle
Authors:
Gil, Rosario and Orueta, Gabriel Díaz and Tawfik, Mohamed and Garcia-Loro, Felix and Martin, Alberto Pesquera and Sancristobal, Elio and Martin, Sergio and Castro, Manuel
Abstract:
This research describes the method of combining traditional authentication (password and username) with biometric technology, specifically fingerprint authentication. This authentication model is applied in distance education where courses are developed in learning management systems. It introduces the features of distance education as well as the biometric sensor operation. It describes the changes that are necessary to introduce the learning management system in order to use the fingerprint as data in the process of authentication. Finally, we perform tests of assessment for the new authentication system in lab sessions at the college.
TrivialCV: Competitive Activities for the Classroom Integrated in a Moodle Virtual Campus
Authors:
Moreno-Ger, Pablo and Martinez-Ortiz, Iván and Gilmartin, Virginia Francisco and Ballesteros, Raquel Hervás
Abstract:
This paper describes TrivialCV, a toolkit created to facilitate the management of team-based competitive activities within the classroom. TrivialCV was designed as an instructor-oriented tool, in order to foster the organization of these types of innovative activities by facilitating the instructor's task. This goal is achieved by providing easy-to-use graphical tools and a kit of integration services that allow TrivialCV to be integrated with popular e-learning tools (e.g., Moodle-based environments). Integration is achieved by using an extensible plugin that can be generalized to support different e-Learning tools and even different external activities. The article describes the general architecture designed to integrate TrivialCV with different e-learning tools, and the specific implementation developed to integrate it with the Virtual Campus at the Complutense University (based in Moodle v1.9).
Three Techniques for Competitive Lab Activities Based on Project-Oriented Learning in Information and Communication Technologies
Authors:
Paneda, Xabiel García and Melendi, David and Cabrero, Sergio and Blanco, Raquel and Garcia, Roberto and Rodriguez, Abel Rionda
Abstract:
Laboratory work is one of the most important activities in technical degrees. In these classes, students learn while carrying out tasks similar to those they could encounter in a professional environment. These activities help to strengthen the theoretical principles while allowing the students to develop useful skills for their careers. In this paper, we present three experiences (Lab Battle, Lab Race, and Lab Triathlon) in the organization of practical activities based on the paradigms of competitiveness and project-oriented learning. The goal of these techniques is to immerse the students in an environment as realistic as possible. In such scenarios, it is often important to be first, to think like the “bad guy” or to keep confidentiality. After three years applying these techniques, we have observed great motivation and excellent competences in the students. Moreover, cheating has been less frequent than in other types of lab assignments.