Converting an Undergrad-Lab to an Interactive E-Learning Experience That Enables Student Teamwork

Abstract

This Innovative Practice Work in Progress Paper presents a comprehensive approach to convert an undergrad hands-on electronics lab to an e-learning experience. Special care was taken to make the format interactive as well as to encourage teamwork between students. The conversion was made to conform with the social distancing measures implemented as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of relying on pre-recorded lessons, the lab was offered through live video sessions. Multiple cameras were used to make it easy for students to follow the instructor performing the experiment. Students worked together in teams they had chosen at the beginning of the semester throughout the entire course, giving team members the opportunity to get to know each other or strengthen existing bonds. During the live sessions, the teams were repeatedly sent to breakout rooms to discuss and vote on questions related to the execution of the experiments and the measurement results. The votes, which were carried out using the Moodle learning management system (LMS), were then discussed in the plenary, and the course of the experiment was adjusted accordingly. Using data of student participation from the LMS and the results of a detailed survey, the success of the implemented measures can be proven empirically. 88.2 % of students found that the interactive elements helped them to stay concentrated during the live sessions. 79.6 % agreed that the breakout rooms improved cooperation within their team and 72.8 % plan to stay in touch with their team members.