About This Project

This experiment is in a rural computing department with limited equipment. The research question is whether we can get students to enjoy IT more by engaging them with new Raspberry Pi modules. This will be tested with an action research approach. The outcomes will help apply elsewhere for larger future projects. Since the Raspberry brand is well-known, this can also lead to collaboration with other schools.

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What is the context of this research?

Kinesthetic learning is a form of learning by direct experience, typically with physical movements and touching. Kinesthetic learning is covered in the academic literature in a general sense to facilitate better comprehension and engagement. In the teaching of IT, using physical devices and kinesthetic learning has also been regarded as potentially increasing students' attention to the topic. After disruptions of face-to-face learning due to COVID, a new study will be useful to educators. Students are relieved to be back on campus, but it is hard to engage them with lectures and readings. Testing the hypothesis with kinesthetic learning makes sense as this approach is likely to meet younger students' expectations.

What is the significance of this project?

There are more resources and funding in urban centers but it can be challenging for students in regions to study advanced IT. Our current resources just keep up with regular computer upgrades, without room for interesting devices. After short-term assistance here, future work and other equipment will require us to apply elsewhere for greater funding. Positive outcomes from this experiment will help document and justify our approach for other funding applications. The equipment choice is apt in that we can form collaborations with the Raspberry Foundation and other schools. We will make a contribution to literature on Generation Z students who can experience loneliness and disengagement. These can be overcome through interaction with devices and people, which we will reflect on.

What are the goals of the project?

First, we will implement and distribute the equipment to students in the labs. We will start with one course only, and at least five volunteer students from a course. Depending on the available funding, we can go up to 18 students to cover all students in the first course, and then up to a maximum of 35 students which will cover all of the students in the two courses related to this experiment. These are second year tertiary (university) level courses called 'Electronics,' and 'Embedded Systems.' Then we will observe and collect their feedback and experiences. We will also write and share our findings with other professionals nationally and/or internationally.