Journal of Information Technology and Application in Education

Number Vol.2 Iss2, 2013

61-66
Modbus-Based SCADA/HMI Applications

Authors: Savaş Şahin

Abstract

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Number of views: 341

This paper introduces design and implementation of Modbus-based supervisory control and data acquisition/human machine interface (SCADA/HMI) applications. In reaction to the severe problems such as incompatibility and complexity occurring in in the course of the selection of SCADA/HMI packet programs, controllers and instruments, a brief survey on SCADA programs produced by industrial automation vendors is presented and then two Modbus-based SCADA/HMI applications are designed and implemented via National Instrument (NI) Lookout program. Thus, obligation in harmony with same vendor’s industrial automation products is eliminated for any SCADA/HMI system. In this study, Modbus-based SCADA/HMI applications have been developed using frequency-controlled inverter, programmable logic controller, and NI Lookout program in order to meet industrial and educational application needs.

67-79
A Study of Jordanian Graduate Students’ Attitudes toward and Use of Weblog in a Blended Learning Course

Authors: Al-Mothana M. Gasaymeh, Mustafa O. Jwaifell

Abstract

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Number of views: 337

This study aimed to examine the Jordanian graduate students’ attitudes toward and the use of the weblog as a tool for communication and reflection to support their learning in a blended learning course. The participants in this study are 34 graduate students enrolled in a blended learning class in information technology. For the purpose of the study, the weblog was introduced as a tool for communication and reflection in the third week of the class and lasted for thirteen weeks. The participation in the weblog was voluntary for the students. The study followed mixed methods design. At the end of the semester, students were requested to complete a questionnaire regarding their attitudes toward the use of the blog. Students’ blogging behavior and frequency were recorded and analyzed at the end of the semester. Semi-structured interviews were conducted for ten students. Rogers' (Rogers, 2003) innovation-diffusion model was employed to understand and clarify the findings. The analysis of the collected data showed that the students had positive attitudes toward the use of the blog as a tool for communication and reflection to support their learning. However, students’ positive attitudes toward the use of the blog in the educational setting were not reflected in their actual use of the weblog, where their participations in the blog were very limited. Based on the findings, this study provided some recommendations concerning the implementation of the weblog in the Jordanian higher education settings.

80-84
Grouping Attribute Values in a Dimensional Table Design: A Customized Approach for Teaching Business Analytical Applications Using Microsoft Business Intelligence Tools

Authors: Chang Liu, Charles Downing

Abstract

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Number of views: 414

Customization and flexibility are needed for drill-down and drill-through data analysis in a business intelligence cube design. This paper presents an easy way of customized grouping dimensional attribute members in Microsoft SQL Server Analysis Services. The approach described in this paper indicates that such customization yields quicker learning and more complete understanding of a cube design by students.

85-94
Social Networks, Web and Mentoring Approaches in SME Continuing Vocational Education and Training

Authors: Ileana Hamburg, Timothy Hall

Abstract

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Number of views: 386

Continuing vocational education and training (CVET) strategies of many companies, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), fail to adequately support many life-long-learners i.e. learners with special needs. eLearning based on Web 2.0 and 3.0 applications and techniques, social networking and mentoring, which are proved useful in many academic context, could enhance knowledge sharing and the efficiency of CVET in SMEs and also to gather people with special needs willing to work. However, there is evidence in neither continuous learning of the application of (formal) eLearning, or use of ICT adopted by individuals in (informal) learning in most SMEs, nor mentoring for social integration. The main goal of the work described in this paper is to present approaches, such as mentoring and networking which contribute to the improvement of CVET, support and motivate the integration of disadvantaged groups. Some characteristics of CVET and the vocational training scene in SMEs are summarized at first, and then the features of Web 2.0 and 3.0 are outlined that could improve this situation. Thirdly, the advantages of the development of social networks and mentoring approaches are presented, and last but not least, examples are listed.

95-104
The Driving Motives of Undergraduate Students for Using e-Communication - The Ways for Achieving Effective

Authors: Fatma Ozmen, Songül Karabatak

Abstract

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Number of views: 309

Electronic communication (e-communication) as a result of rapid development of information and communication technologies (ICT), gaining momentum over the last decade, has become an important communication tool that has profoundly affected our lives with its great opportunities and possibilities. E-communication inevitably influenced educational institutions, and the institutions which implement e-communication effectively, have begun to provide significant advantages in terms of time, space, labor, and cost. This situation creates an impact on the educational institutions, especially on higher education institutions, so as to achieve more effective use of e-communication. In this study, based on the views of academic staff and undergraduate students, the reasons that make underground students use e-communication, advantages and disadvantages of e-communication, and the issues related to what should be done for the use of e-communication more effectively, have been examined. In the research, an interview technique was utilized as a means of data collection. Opinions of both 25 academic staff and 25 undergraduate students in the Faculty of Technology at Firat University, were taken by means of semi-structured questions. The obtained data were coded and the themes were determined. Then based on the frequencies of the repetition of the themes, the data were analyzed. The findings revealed that undergraduate students used e-communications, especially for sharing knowledge related educational issues, and that beside advantageous sides, there were disadvantageous features of e-communication as well.