Development of An Electronics Trainer With Computer Based Input Output System
Development of An Electronics Trainer With Computer Based Input Output System
INTRODUCTION
Technology impacts how people live, work, play, and most importantly learn.
When integrated into the curriculum, technology revolutionizes the learning process
(www.edutopia.org) and helps students stay engaged; it is a means for teachers to
connect with students of all learning styles (Moreco, 2017; Costley, 2014). The
application of technology (including software, hardware, and processes) facilitates
learning (Lazaro, 2014, Costley, 2014,). Likewise, the use of technology tools is
aligned with the Experiential Learning Theory of Kolb which enables students to have
the concrete experience, abstract conceptualization, reflective observation and active
experimentation (Cherry, 2019). Moreover, the aims to improve student performance
and increased participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics
(STEM) programs and careers will hardly be achieved without the integral use of
technology (Office of Education Technology, U.S. Department of Education, 2014)
Tools or devices in teaching electronics have a history dating back from the
early years of the 19th century. Later in 1964, Ruben A. Cruz developed the first
solderless breadboard made of wood while a plastic pluggable breadboard was
designed by Ronald J. Portugal in 1971(Johnson, 2013; wikivisually.com;
www.instructables.com) which is still in use nowadays for circuit experiment and
prototyping. With the advancement of technology, modern and complicated electronic
teaching devices, also called trainers are common in engineering, technology
programs, and short technical courses where practical laboratory exercises and
experiments are done to verify theories learned in discussions. Also, software and
computer applications are available for the simulation and analysis of electronic
circuits without the use of electronic components. Simulators mimic the function of a
trainer and are considered more efficient, less costly and sometimes free since no
electronic components and measuring instruments are needed. Simulation is a form
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of experiential learning that fits well with the principle of student-centered and
constructivist learning and teaching as it allows learning by doing and provides the
opportunity to explore the modeled domain (teaching.unsw.edu.au, 2018;
Glover,(2014). Whatever the instructor wants to use, there are pros and cons to be
considered.
The current study combines the user to use electronic components and
simulation. When experimenting on circuits using electronic components, input
signals and measurement of electrical quantities are computer-based simulated,
hence, eliminates the use of expensive equipment like a signal generator and
oscilloscope, thus, promotes cost-effectiveness and technology-based learning. The
trainer is intended to be used for experiments in basic electronic circuits, analog
electronics, digital electronics and other circuits that need basic elements such as
breadboard, voltage source, input signals, and oscilloscope. Moreover, the trainer is
capable of a printed circuit board (PCB) design because of the installed Proteus
Design Suite.
METHODOLOGY
Research Paradigm
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Figure 1. Research Paradigm
Project Design
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Figure 2. Block Diagram
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Reference Numerals:
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Figure 4 illustrates the schematic diagram of the variable and 5V power
supply composed of electronic components designed to output a variable DC voltage
of 1.3 volts to 22.5 volts at the J2 output terminal and a constant 5 volts DC voltage
at the J3 output terminal.
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Figure 6 is the graphical presentation of the project design labeled with
reference numerals
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4 Computer monitor
5 BCD to 7 segment display block
6 Breadboard set
7 Wireless mouse
8 Wireless keyboard
9 External variable power supply port
10 Oscilloscope input port
11 Function generator output port
12 Digital ports
13 Casing
14 Oscilloscope probe
15 Function generator probe
16 Platform
Figure 7 below shows the casing made of an attaché case. Aside from the
aesthetic value that this case provides, it is excellent for easy handling, transport,
and storage. It also provides protection to the different parts of the utility model
particularly from moisture, dust and other particles that may damage the parts.
(a)
(b)
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Figure 8 illustrates the actual image of the wiring interconnection of the parts
under the platform which shows the I/O board, LED monitor power supply, mini PC
power supply, Variable power supply together with the BCD to 7 segment decoder in
one board, terminal strip, VGA port, main switch, AC port, and fuse.
Figure 9 meanwhile, shows the actual image of the project when the top
cover of the casing is open. It can be seen that the computer monitor is seen fixedly
attached to the inner side of the top cover of the casing. While the set of the
breadboard, wireless keyboard, and other small parts are on top of the platform.
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Figure 10 illustrates the actual image of the project when the top cover of the casing
is closed. The casing is an attaché case adapted for the project because of its robust
design – made of hard synthetic material with a numeric safety lock, a padlock, and a
handle.
Figure 10. Actual image of the project when the top cover of the casing is closed
Survey Instrument
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Statistical Treatment of Data
This section presents the testing and evaluation results and the analysis and
interpretation of data.
Respondents’ Profile
As shown in Table 1 the respondents are experts (f = 23, 77%) and students
(f = 7, 23%) for a total of 30 respondents. The experts are composed of technicians,
(f = 7, 23.33%) and engineers (f = 2, 6.66%) in manufacturing industries and
instructors (f = 10, 33.33%) and professors (f = 4, 13.33) in universities and colleges.
Table 1
Respondents of the Study
Type f %
Experts respondents 23 77
Technicians (7 or 23.33%)
Engineers (2 or 6.66%)
Instructors (10 or 33.33%)
Professors (4 or 13.33)
Students 7 23
Total 30 100
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Area of Specialization
Table 2
Area of Specialization of Expert and Student Respondents
Area of Specialization f %
Electronics 18 60
Electrical 2 7
Computer 9 30
Others 1 3
Total 30 100
Affiliation
Table 3
Affiliation of Respondents
Affiliation f %
TUPC 14 47
TUP Manila 4 13
FEPC 4 13
Analog Devices 5 17
Maxim Integrated 3 10
Total 30 100
Testing Results
The test was done to verify the output of the variable power supply which was
assumed to provide 0-25 DC volts. However, the actual output was 1.30 volts when
the potentiometer was turned extreme to the left (minimum) and 22.4 volts at extreme
right (maximum). It was expected to output approximately half of the maximum
voltage when the potentiometer was at the mid position which produced 10.4 volts.
Actual measurement of the minimum and maximum voltage is shown in Table 4
below.
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Table 4
DC Variable Power Supply
Output Voltage
Test Position of Potentiometer Remarks
In Volt
1 Extreme to the left (Min.) 1.30 V Normal
Extreme to the right Normal
2 22.40 V
(Max.)
3 Half-way (Mid-value) 10.4 V Normal
The test was also done to the BCD to 7 segment display circuit to verify its
operation. Four logic inputs were taken from the digital ports via the breadboard. The
7 segment display displayed all the patterns 0,1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. The figure
below shows the actual image of testing with “1” displayed on the 7 segment display
Table 5
BCD to 7 Segment Display Module Truth Table
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Accuracy test was conducted on the internal oscilloscope of the project and
the results were compared with the measurement done with a traditional
oscilloscope. As seen from the computation in Table 6, the internal oscilloscope is
99.4845 accurate and the tradition oscilloscope is 97.15% accurate.
Table 6
Accuracy test on the internal oscilloscope
Measured Value
Parameters Rated Value
Internal Osc. Traditional Osc.
Frequency 600Hz 600.2Hz 598.8Hz
Vpp 2V 1.98V 1.89V
Difference from Frequency Frequency
rated value 600.2 – 600 = 0.2Hz 600 – 598.8 = 1.2Hz
or 0.033% or 0.2%
Vpp Vpp
2 – 1.98 = 0.02V 2 – 1.89 = 0.11V
or 1% or 5.5%
Mean difference Mean difference
(1% + 0.033%)/2 (0.2% + 5.5%)/2
=0.516% = 2.85%
Accuracy 100 – 0.516 = 100 – 2.85 = 97.15%
99.484%
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Evaluation Results
Table 7
Verbal
Reliability Mean SD
Interpretation
1. Measurements made by the instructional tool
are accurate and comparable with traditional 4.433 0.496 Agree
laboratory equipment.
2. The instructional tool performed satisfactorily Strongly
4.766 0.423
during testing and evaluation. Agree
Perfectly
Overall mean 4.600 0.490
Acceptable
Legend: Range of means Verbal Interpretation Level of Acceptability
4.51 – 5.00 Strongly Agree Perfectly Acceptable
3.51 – 4.50 Agree Acceptable
2.51 – 3.50 Neutral Slightly Acceptable
1.51 – 2.50 Disagree Unacceptable
1.0 – 1.50 Strongly Disagree Strongly Unacceptable
Table 8
Rating on the Usability
Verbal
Usability Mean SD
Interpretation
1. Clear instructions for using the instructional
4.033 0.657 Agree
tool are available.
2. The instructional tool is easy to use (i.e.,
navigation, user control, visibility of system 3.333 0.650 Neutral
status).
3. The instructional tool can be used for Strongly
4.800 0.476
electronic circuit modeling Agree
Overall mean 4.056 0.848 Acceptable
Legend: Range of means Verbal Interpretation Level of Acceptability
4.51 – 5.00 Strongly Agree Perfectly Acceptable
3.51 – 4.50 Agree Acceptable
2.51 – 3.50 Neutral Slightly Acceptable
1.51 – 2.50 Disagree Unacceptable
1.0 – 1.50 Strongly Disagree Strongly Unacceptable
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For the “usability” aspect, Table 8 shows that the instructional tool can be
used for electronic circuit modeling with a mean rating of 4.800 (SD = 0.476)
described as “acceptable; there are clear instructions for using the instructional tool
available with a mean rating of 4.033 (SD = 0.657) described as “acceptable”; and
the instructional tool is easy to use with a mean rating of 3.333 (SD = 0.650)
described as “slightly acceptable”. The overall mean of 4.056 and standard deviation
of 0.848 reflect that the project is acceptable as rated by the respondents. The
“neutral” rating of the respondents, however, on the ease of use is normal for a
computer-based educational tool and can be attributed to the limited time allotted for
the respondents to familiarize themselves with the equipment. The responses are
somewhat homogeneous as indicated by the small SD value.
Table 9
Rating on the Impact to Learning
Verbal
Learning Mean SD
Interpretation
Strongly
1. The instructional tool promotes learning. 4.633 0.547
Agree
2. The instructional tool aids instructors in
demonstrating concepts and theories to students.
4.433 0.496 Agree
3. As an educational technology tool, the instructional
tool has the potential of improving learning, 4.400 0.554 Agree
instruction, and student performance.
Overall Mean 4.488 0.543 Acceptable
Legend: Range of means Verbal Interpretation Level of Acceptability
4.51 – 5.00 Strongly Agree Perfectly Acceptable
3.51 – 4.50 Agree Acceptable
2.51 – 3.50 Neutral Slightly Acceptable
1.51 – 2.50 Disagree Unacceptable
1.0 – 1.50 Strongly Disagree Strongly Unacceptable
Table 9 indicates that for the impact to learning as measured by the indicators
the instructional tool was seen to promote learning with a mean rating of 4.633 (SD =
0.547) described as “perfectly acceptable”; aids instructors in demonstrating
concepts and theories to students with a mean rating of 4.433 (SD = 0.496)
described as “acceptable”; and as an educational technology tool, has a potential of
improving learning with a mean rating of 4.400 (SD = 0.554) described as
“acceptable”. The overall mean of 4.488 and standard deviation of 0.543 given by the
respondents are indications that the project is acceptable in the aspect of learning.
The overall mean ( ̅ = 4.152; SD = 0.529) signifies closeness of responses by the
respondents.
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Table 10
Rating on the Design
Verbal
Design Mean SD
Interpretation
1. The design integrates technology tools that
help learners engage effectively with the
4.333 0.471 Agree
concepts, theories, and skills needed to
perform laboratory activities.
2. The instructional tool provides an opportunity
for learners to obtain immediate feedback on 4.367 0.547 Agree
activities performed.
3. The instructional tool stands alone and is used Strongly
4.600 0.490
to perform various electronics lab activities. Agree
4. The instructional tool design reflects a modern
Strongly
educational environment in which learning 4.700 0.458
Agree
activities can be performed using technology.
Overall Mean 4.500 0.516 Acceptable
Legend: Range of means Verbal Interpretation Level of Acceptability
4.51 – 5.00 Strongly Agree Perfectly Acceptable
3.51 – 4.50 Agree Acceptable
2.51 – 3.50 Neutral Slightly Acceptable
1.51 – 2.50 Disagree Unacceptable
1.0 – 1.50 Strongly Disagree Strongly Unacceptable
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Table 11
Rating on the Value
Verbal
Value Mean SD
Interpretation
1. Online and offline help and documentation
files are provided for students and instructors 4.367 0.547 Agree
including contextual assistance.
2. The design of visual and auditory information
3.767 0.716 Agree
enhances learning and mental process.
3. The instructional tool is accessible to learners
4.433 0.559 Agree
with diverse needs.
4. The instructional tool can be used effectively
in a mixture of learning and laboratory 3.967 0.605 Agree
activities.
5. The instructional tool supports the student- Strongly
4.667 0.537
centered learning model. Agree
Overall mean 4.240 0.680 Acceptable
Legend: Range of means Verbal Interpretation Level of Acceptability
4.51 – 5.00 Strongly Agree Perfectly Acceptable
3.51 – 4.50 Agree Acceptable
2.51 – 3.50 Neutral Slightly Acceptable
1.51 – 2.50 Disagree Unacceptable
1.0 – 1.50 Strongly Disagree Strongly Unacceptable
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Table 12
Summary of Ratings
Summary of Findings
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Conclusions
Recommendations
On the basis of the statistical findings and conclusions of the study, these are
the recommendations:
1. Since the project was rated acceptable, it is recommended that the
instructional tool be used in electronic circuit experimentation, modeling, and
simulation.
2. More time must be provided for the user to familiarize with the instructional
tool before its actual use.
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Bibliography
Cherry, K. (2019). Experiential Learning Theory of David Kolb. Retrieved January 27,
2019 from https://www.verywellmind.com/experiential-learning-2795154
Lazaro, H. (2014). What is EdTech and why should it Matter to You? Retrieved
January 27, 2019 from https://generalassemb.ly/blog/what-is-edtech/
Johnson, S. (2013). What's It Worth: Electronic Trainers. Retrieved January 27, 2019
from https://www.electronicproducts.com/Test_and_Measurement/Portable
_Handheld/What_39_s_It_Worth_Electronic_Trainers.aspx
Web references
https://teaching.unsw.edu.au/simulations
https://www.useoftechnology.com/how-has-technology-changed-education/
https://elearningindustry.com/benefits-technology-integration-education-sphere
https://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-guide-importance
https://edtechnology.co.uk/Article/five-ways-technology-has-changed-teaching-and-
learning
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