Teaching embedded systems in a MOOC format

Abstract

We have designed and implemented a Massive Open Online Class (MOOC) with a substantial lab component within the edX platform. We deployed this MOOC three times with a total enrollment of over 100,000 students. If MOOCs are truly going to transform engineering education, then they must be able to deliver classes with laboratory components. Our offering goes a long way in unraveling the perceived complexities in delivering a laboratory experience to thousands of students from around the globe. We believe the techniques developed in this class will significantly transform the MOOC environment. Effective education requires students to learn by doing. In the traditional academic setting this active learning is achieved through a lab component. Translating this to the online environment is a non-trivial task that required several important factors to come together. First, we have significant support from industrial partners ARM Inc. [1] and Texas Instruments [2]. Second, the massive growth of embedded microcontrollers has made the availability of lost-cost development platforms feasible. Third, we have assembled a team with the passion, patience, and experience of delivering quality lab experiences to large classes. Fourth, online tools now exist that allow students to interact and support each other. We used edX for the delivery of videos, interactive animations, text, and quizzes [3]. We used Piazza [4] for discussion boards and Zyante[5] for a programming reference. We partnered with element-14[6], Digi-Key[7], and Mouser[8] to make the lab kit available and low-cost. Even though there was a $40-$70 cost to purchase the lab kit, the course completion numbers were slightly better than a typical MOOC. 7.3% of the students completed enough of the class to receive a certificate. Students completing end of the course surveys report a 95% overall satisfaction. Demographics show a world-wide reach with India, US, and Egypt being the countries with the most students. In this paper we will present best practices, successes and limitations of teaching a substantial lab across the globe.