Increasing Career Competencies in Computer Networking Courses using Simulation, Hands-On Learning, and Project-Based Learning Within a Cognitive Apprenticeship Framework

该项目旨在通过改善计算机网络和通信课程的本科生学习来服务于国家利益。要为这些领域的工作做好准备，大学毕业生必须能够批判性地思考，解决问题，与他人良好合作，并有效沟通。这个项目将应用一种新的方法来教授计算机网络，使学生能够学习技术技能和提高就业能力技能。该教学方法将在认知学徒制框架内结合基于模拟的学习、实践学习和基于项目的学习。这个框架描述了一种学习环境，旨在通过强调认知和元认知过程和技能的指导性学习体验，帮助新手走向专业技能。在重新设计的课程中，学生将使用网络和数字通信模拟软件来设计真实世界的网络，然后创建他们设计的网络的工作物理模型。在整个过程中，学生将练习元认知，以便他们意识到并能够有目的地加强自己的问题解决策略。预计这种教学方法将为毕业生在网络和数字通信领域的职业生涯做好准备，其他机构也将能够成功地使用这种方法。该项目旨在培养具有计算机网络和通信工作场所成功所需的领域知识、实践和职业准备技能以及独立解决问题能力的毕业生。该项目的研究部分将审查学生在以下方面的进展：(A)网络和数字通信概念知识和实践技能；(B)网络和数字通信的自我效能；(C)职业准备能力水平；(D)更高层次和元认知思维技能。这种教学方法将在汉普顿大学的三门课程中实施，汉普顿大学是一所历史悠久的黑人学院或大学。现有的调查工具，包括学生对他们的学习收获的评估，元认知意识问卷，以及Stelar STEM学习和研究中心的调查，将被用于评估该方法的有效性。这项工作预计将有助于在高需求的网络和通信领域建立一支能力很强、多样化的劳动力队伍。NSF IUSE：EHR计划支持研究和开发项目，以提高所有学生的STEM教育的有效性。通过参与的学生学习路径，该计划支持有前景的实践和工具的创建、探索和实施。该奖项反映了NSF的法定使命，并通过使用基金会的智力优势和更广泛的影响审查标准进行评估，被认为值得支持。

This project aims to serve the national interest by improving undergraduate learning in computer networking and communications courses. To be prepared for jobs in these fields, college graduates must be able to think critically, solve problems, work well with others, and communicate effectively. This project will apply a new approach for teaching computer networking that enables students to learn technical skills and improve employability skills. The teaching approach will combine simulation-based learning, hands-on learning, and project-based learning within a cognitive apprenticeship framework. This framework describes a learning environment designed to help a novice move toward expertise through guided learning experiences that emphasize cognitive and metacognitive processes and skills. Students in the redesigned courses will use networking and digital communications simulation software to design real-world networks and will then create a working physical model of the network they designed. Throughout the process, students will practice metacognition, so that they become aware of and can purposefully strengthen their own problem-solving strategies. It is expected that this teaching approach will prepare graduates for careers in networking and digital communications, and that other institutions will be able to successfully use the approach. The project aims to produce graduates who have the domain knowledge, practical and career readiness skills, and independent problem-solving capability needed for workplace success in computer networking and communications. The research component of the project will examine student progress in: (a) networking and digital communication concept knowledge and practical skills; (b) self-efficacy in networking and digital communications; (c) career readiness competencies level; and (d) higher-order and metacognitive thinking skills. The teaching approach will be implemented in three courses at Hampton University, an Historically Black College or University. Existing survey instruments, including the Student Assessment of their Learning Gains, the Metacognitive Awareness Inventory, and surveys from the STELAR STEM Learning and Research Center, will be used to assess the effectiveness of the approach. This work is expected to contribute to building a highly capable, diverse workforce in the high-demand field of networking and communications. The NSF IUSE: EHR Program supports research and development projects to improve the effectiveness of STEM education for all students. Through the Engaged Student Learning track, the program supports the creation, exploration, and implementation of promising practices and tools.This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.