%0 Journal Article
%T Holistic Web-based Virtual Micro Controller Framework for Research and Education
%A Sven Seiler
%A Raivo Sell
%A Dennis Ptasik
%A Martin Boelter
%J International Journal of Online Engineering (iJOE)
%D 2012
%I Kassel University Press
%R 10.3991/ijoe.v8i4.2169
%X Education in the field of embedded system programming became an even more important aspect in the qualification of young engineers during the last decade. This development is accompanied by a rapidly increasing complexity of the software environments used with such devices. Therefore a qualified and solid teaching methodology is necessary, accompanied by industry driven technological innovation with an emphasis on programming. As part of three European projects regarding lifelong-learning a comprehensive blended learning concept for teaching embedded systems and robotics was developed by paper authors. It comprises basic exercises in micro controller programming up to high-level student robotic challenges. These implemented measures are supported by a distance learning environment. The programming of embedded systems and microcontroller technology has to be seen as the precursor for more complex robotic systems in this context, but with a high importance for later successfully working with the technology for further professional utilization with these technologies. Current paper introduces the most novel part; the online accessible Virtual Micro Controller Platform (VMCU) and its underlying simulation framework platform. This approach conquers the major existing problems in engineering education: outdated hardware and limited lab times. This paper answers the question about advantages of using virtual hardware in an educational environment.
%K Distance learning
%K Computer science education
%K Remote systems
%K Robotics
%K framework
%K virtual micro controller
%U http://www.online-journals.org/index.php/i-joe/article/view/2169