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Problem based learning of object-oriented Programming with LEGO Mindstorms and leJOS

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Automation, Communication and Cybernetics in Science and Engineering 2011/2012

Abstract

Problem based learning has proved to be a powerful educational approach to successful and effective teaching. Experiences worldwide have shown the attraction of robotics and the improved motivation of students dealing with robots. Problem based learning (PBL) as well as robotics are usually applied when dealing with smaller groups of students. However, in the first year of study student numbers of more than 1000 are a common phenomenon for lectures in mechanical engineering. This paper introduces a setup for teaching object-oriented programming based on programming LEGO Mindstorms NXT robots for large scaled groups. The huge number of students – up to 1500 students per year – to be dealt with presents a special challenge, due to resource limitations as well as technical aspects. We therefore present a problem based learning approach based on a fixed robot setup with prebuild robot models.

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References

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Correspondence to Daniel Ewert , Daniel Schilberg or Sabina Jeschke .

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Ewert, D., Schilberg, D., Jeschke, S. (2013). Problem based learning of object-oriented Programming with LEGO Mindstorms and leJOS. In: Jeschke, S., Isenhardt, I., Hees, F., Henning, K. (eds) Automation, Communication and Cybernetics in Science and Engineering 2011/2012. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-33389-7_24

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