Integrating Sensor Networks in Undergraduate Curriculum: A Marriage between Theory and Practice

Drexel University, Philadelphia PA

Investigators

Abstract

Engineering - Electrical (55) This project is integrating material on sensor networks into the undergraduate engineering curriculum by creating experiments to help students see the application of theory to real life problems. The investigators are developing a new junior-level embedded systems course with a laboratory that is providing hands-on experience with the design, programming, and evaluation of sensor networks. They also are offering a mini-conference to showcase student projects and a seminar series with guest speakers to explore sensor network applications and curriculum development. The laboratory also will serve other courses and support first-year and senior design projects. The evaluation effort, led by an experienced assessment specialist, is using student surveys and the analysis of student exams and reports to monitor progress. The developed material and study results are being disseminated through web postings, conference presentations, and journal papers. There is a high school outreach component through an existing RET program in which the investigators participate. The broader impacts of the project include the dissemination of the material and the high school outreach.