Board 57: Work in Progress: Immersive Learning: Maximizing Computer Networks Education Based on 3D Interactive Animations

Yixin Zhang; Hanzhang Xing; Yaqi Zhang; Xinyan Du; Hamid S Timorabadi

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Conference: 2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition
Location: Portland, Oregon
Publication Date: June 23, 2024
Start Date: June 23, 2024
End Date: July 12, 2024
Conference Session: Computers in Education Division (COED) Poster Session
Tagged Division: Computers in Education Division (COED)
Permanent URL: https://strategy.asee.org/47054

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Paper Authors

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Yixin Zhang University of Toronto

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Yixin Zhang is an undergraduate student in computer engineering at the University of Toronto (graduating in May 2024). Her research interests include computer networks and digital communications.

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Hanzhang Xing

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Yaqi Zhang University of Toronto

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An ECE student from university of Toronto.

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Xinyan Du University of Toronto

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Xinyan Du is a fourth-year Computer Engineering student at the University of Toronto. She is proficient with C, C++, Python, SQL, and JavaScript.

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Hamid S Timorabadi P.Eng. University of Toronto

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Hamid Timorabadi received his B.Sc, M.A.Sc, and Ph.D. degrees in Electrical Engineering from the University of Toronto. He has worked as a project, design, and test engineer as well as a consultant to industry. His research interests include the applicati

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Abstract

In light of the evolution of multimedia, more educators employ 3D animated models to teach abstract concepts or analyze complex objects. The potential of 3D animation models makes the learning process more vivid and clear via stimulating students’ attention. By visualizing abstract perceptions, educators are able to convey complex knowledge better and facilitate students in understanding and remembering them. Although 3D animations are widely used in many fields, there is a lack of such animation models for computer networks. Additionally, concepts of computer networks are often abstract and intricate, such as packet transmission, routing algorithms, and network topology. As a result, educators commonly rely on text and static images when explaining these complex concepts, potentially limiting students' understanding of these topics.

In response to the current educational landscape and the growing role of multimedia, our initiative aims to fill this void in networking education by introducing an interactive 3D model. This novel approach is designed to empower educators with the means to effectively convey intricate concepts, enriching the learning experience through dynamic and captivating visualizations. Accessible via a user-friendly website, our 3D model brings computer networks knowledge readily available to a broader audience, transcending the confines of traditional classroom settings. Leveraging the robust and user-friendly Verge3D toolkit within the Blender platform, we ensure smooth integration of our 3D model into the website. Moreover, the website itself is constructed using the React JS framework and enhanced with a suite of packages, including Bootstrap, to elevate the frontend aesthetics.

A trial survey involves two groups of undergraduate students in electrical and computer engineering. The primary objective of this survey is to assess the effectiveness of our design. The first group comprises students with prior knowledge of computer networks. This survey primarily examines their perceptions regarding the organization of content delivery, the depth and breadth of the covered material within the animation models, and their overall experience while interacting with the animations. The second group, in contrast, consists of students without prior knowledge in the field. For this group, the survey is designed to gauge their ability to acquire knowledge from the animation models, the intuitiveness of using the models and aesthetics of the models. We are also seeking input from instructors’ perspectives and feedback to ensure content consistency across our design. Both feedback from students and instructors are positive.

Citation
Format

Zhang, Y., & Xing, H., & Zhang, Y., & Du, X., & Timorabadi, H. S. (2024, June), Board 57: Work in Progress: Immersive Learning: Maximizing Computer Networks Education Based on 3D Interactive Animations Paper presented at 2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Portland, Oregon. https://strategy.asee.org/47054

TY - CPAPER
AB - In light of the evolution of multimedia, more educators employ 3D animated models to teach abstract concepts or analyze complex objects. The potential of 3D animation models makes the learning process more vivid and clear via stimulating students’ attention. By visualizing abstract perceptions, educators are able to convey complex knowledge better and facilitate students in understanding and remembering them. Although 3D animations are widely used in many fields, there is a lack of such animation models for computer networks. Additionally, concepts of computer networks are often abstract and intricate, such as packet transmission, routing algorithms, and network topology. As a result, educators commonly rely on text and static images when explaining these complex concepts, potentially limiting students&#39; understanding of these topics.

In response to the current educational landscape and the growing role of multimedia, our initiative aims to fill this void in networking education by introducing an interactive 3D model. This novel approach is designed to empower educators with the means to effectively convey intricate concepts, enriching the learning experience through dynamic and captivating visualizations. Accessible via a user-friendly website, our 3D model brings computer networks knowledge readily available to a broader audience, transcending the confines of traditional classroom settings. Leveraging the robust and user-friendly Verge3D toolkit within the Blender platform, we ensure smooth integration of our 3D model into the website. Moreover, the website itself is constructed using the React JS framework and enhanced with a suite of packages, including Bootstrap, to elevate the frontend aesthetics.

A trial survey involves two groups of undergraduate students in electrical and computer engineering. The primary objective of this survey is to assess the effectiveness of our design. The first group comprises students with prior knowledge of computer networks. This survey primarily examines their perceptions regarding the organization of content delivery, the depth and breadth of the covered material within the animation models, and their overall experience while interacting with the animations. The second group, in contrast, consists of students without prior knowledge in the field. For this group, the survey is designed to gauge their ability to acquire knowledge from the animation models, the intuitiveness of using the models and aesthetics of the models. We are also seeking input from instructors’ perspectives and feedback to ensure content consistency across our design. Both feedback from students and instructors are positive.
AU - Yixin Zhang
AU - Hanzhang Xing
AU - Yaqi Zhang
AU - Xinyan Du
AU - Hamid S Timorabadi P.Eng.
CY - Portland, Oregon
DA - 2024/06/23
PB - ASEE Conferences
TI - Board 57: Work in Progress: Immersive Learning: Maximizing Computer Networks Education Based on 3D Interactive Animations
UR - https://strategy.asee.org/47054
ER -