The implementation of a practice-oriented approach in teaching students of technical universities based on the development of a digital twin of the information system of an industrial enterprise

Abstract

Introduction. In teaching future engineers and mechanics, difficulties arise when they study such disciplines as Theoretical Mechanics and Strength of Materials. As a rule, this is due to the need to consolidate students’ acquired theoretical knowledge. However, carrying out a sufficient number of strength tests of products is associated with significant financial costs, so it is often economically expensive to obtain results by implementing physical experiments, and in some cases it is simply impossible. In this regard, for teaching it is advisable to use accurate distributed dynamic mathematical and software models of objects, that is, digital twins. Materials and methods. As a prototype of a digital twin, an information system of an industrial enterprise was considered, designed to monitor the stress-strain state of a beam using strain gauge data. 198 students and 8 teachers from the Faculty of Mechanics and Technology and the Faculty of Automation and Computer Engineering of the Novosibirsk State Technical University (Russian Federation) took part in testing the methodology. Methods of mathematical statistics: Pearson's chi-squared test, survey and correlation analysis. Results. As a result of the introduction of teaching methods based on the use of a digital twin, situations were created that required students to critically analyze and include metacognitive skills. The implementation of practice-oriented training when working with a digital twin of an information system of an industrial enterprise has an impact on the academic performance of students (χ2 = 4.08; p < 0.05) and allows students to firmly consolidate the acquired theoretical knowledge and practical skills, which will subsequently allow the formation of sustainable professional competencies. Scientific novelty. The study revealed that learning using a digital twin contributes to a more controlled passage of the curriculum by students, develops qualities such as self-control and self-discipline, and stimulates cognitive interest in a specific academic discipline and the educational process in general. Practical relevance. The main advantage of introducing a digital twin of an industrial enterprise information system into the learning process is the effectiveness of this approach in terms of consolidating and developing practical skills among students. In addition, teaching using digital twins is particularly useful for preparation activities in high-risk industries, where practice at real-life facilities is impossible or difficult.