Metrics to facilitate automated categorization of student learning patterns while using educational engineering software

Abstract

In this paper we describe the use of metrics for analysing student interactions with educational software. We applied this metric-based approach to a class of 200 second-year undergraduate students using an educationally-oriented software simulator to solve specific problems in mechanical engineering design. Our results show that a metric can facilitate categorization of student learning patterns.Wesuggest how similar metrics could allow automated feedback on learning to both students and educators. Since it is based on numerical analysis and modelling, our approach is particularly well-suited to software used to support teaching and learning in engineering and other mathematically-based dis..