Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking By Name Neville Palmer and Jomo Batola Engineering Education Conference 2006 Liverpool, 24 th July 06

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Content Introduction Background to case study Teaching, Learning and Assessment Case study unit delivery and assessment Results, Discussion and Feedback Teaching & learning patterns Vocational outcomes Conclusions and Recommendations Future Research

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Who informs the Curriculum? Industry Staff HEI Curriculum Students

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Case Study Background technology based degree – computer networking delivered to a diverse range of students Programme Design BCS accredited address the needs of business and industry vocationally based (attractive to students)

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Subject Particularity Networking Unit level 2 30 CPU inspiration from MCSE, CCNA etc. professional development a goal combination of lectures and practical laboratories theory and practice

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Teaching Lecture one hour plus tutorial Laboratory 2 to 3 hours practical networking lab tasks group or individual work Virtual Learning Environment supported lectures and labs plus unit information, etc.

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Assessment General Several modes of assessment required to meet learning outcomes Student concept of success may be different to our expectations Laboratory Tasks (20%) Modular labs – individual tasks assessed Assessed as a group or individually Collaborative work important for business Laboratory Logbook (20%) Entry for each lab Reflective content Discuss the lab and its outcomes / results Answer questions

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Assessment Assignment (20%) Case study / scenario based not just an assignment requiring re-statement of technical facts in isolation Groups of two (each group has a different topic) student 1: develop scenario + requirements student 2: design solutions that match requirements Produce a written report Present results to the class Oral presentation skills - essential Peer learning scenario based reduces chance of plagiarism

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Examination End of Unit Exam large portion of assessment (40%) assessing knowledge and understanding not just recounting facts discuss systems apply theory to a scenario or exercise understanding and synthesis important

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Discussion and Feedback Teaching and Learning Lectures designed to deliver essential theory Tutorials – interactive small group teaching Laboratories put the theory into practice Virtual Learning Environment Aim: promote Independent Learning

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Vocational Outcomes Teaching and learning strategy should meet this goal Vocational objectives students main reason for motivation Opportunities for: Post-graduate Study Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Aim: Employability

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Results Poor correlation between attendance at lectures and exam results

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Traditional methods of teaching and assessment Not a bad thing as they assist in building overall picture Some students good at course work, but not so with exams But……. Questions: What are the factors involved in the results? How can we help those that attended, but didnt succeed

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Conclusions and Recommendations Application of theory Important for success Practical application stimulates study and research Clear vocational goals - this also important to students Teaching and Learning Styles Different styles suit diverse students Importance of relevance to the real world A varied diet is best? Other hidden factors for success or failure?

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Other Factors in Success or Failure Hidden Strategies Study and work at home Construct a SOHO network Using the Internet Problems and Issues Personal or educational background Diverse backgrounds and learning styles Resources to cope with diverse range of students

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Future Work Identify the hidden factors Identify the issues effecting students: personal and educational background identify extent of diversity identify student expectations Identify solutions How we can: Improve learning experience Improve feedback Develop all as independent learners

Student Learning Strategies for Success in Computer Networking July 06 Questions ?