14th IEEE Integrated STEM Education Conference — 9 AM - 5 PM EDT, Saturday, March 9

Onsite Venue - McDonnell and Jadwin Halls, Princeton University, NJ - Virtual Attendees - Enter Zoom Room

Full Papers

Session Full-01

Full Paper Track 01 — Virtual

Conference
10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST

Designing Educational Games to Teach Ethical Hacking Course in High School (Grades 9-12)

Shafi Parvez Mohammed, Gahangir Hossain and Syed Yaseen Quadri Ameen (University of North Texas, USA); Steven Keosouvanh (West Texas A and M University, USA); Mikyung Shin (West Texas A&M University, USA)

0
In today's fast-paced digital era, teenagers are deeply engaged in the online world, making them susceptible to potential cyber risks. While the internet offers numerous advantages, it also presents cybersecurity challenges. This paper introduces a unique three-stage ethics model for high school students, categorizing hacking types. By blending standard hacking techniques with interactive, hands-on learning using the "Password Predictor Game," students can effectively learn to safeguard their online presence. The "Password Predictor Game" has been found to positively impact students' cybersecurity knowledge and behaviors, as evidenced by both quantitative data and qualitative feedback. The game's instant feedback feature proves particularly effective, leading to a reduction in students using identical passwords. However, future versions of the game could benefit from incorporating more complex scenarios and a broader spectrum of cybersecurity topics, as suggested by some focus group participants. Moreover, our study underscores the significance of early cybersecurity education and emphasizes its practical relevance in the real world.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

The University Environment as a Catalyst for Marriage: A Data Analysis Study

Brendon Munashe Mahere and Malak Fadili (Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco); Imane Fakir and Yousra Chtouki (Al Akhawayn University, Morocco); Fatima Zahra Belhadj, FZ (Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco)

1
The social aspect of student life in higher education is an important indicator that may to a certain extent affect other variables such as student academic performance, student choice of major/minor, the student's choice of the academic institution, the dropout rate, the transfer rate (transfer to another institution)..etc. Data analysis is a powerful way to learn more about the social component of student lives and help identify patterns. Python data analysis libraries allow an easy visualization of these patterns and help spot trends that may not be predictable. Such discovered information retrieved from data allows institutions to make more informed decisions and better cater to students' needs. University marriage specifically receives many conflicting opinions, and it bears many questions, including positive and negative real experiences. Many male and female students globally choose to assume this responsibility and combine marriage and study. Nonetheless, some of them feel that they cannot balance marriage and academic life. Some feel that school years are the most suitable time to find a partner while others believe differently. Are university born marriages more common than we may think? Can an academic institution be a catalyst for marriage? In this paper, we use python libraries to analyse data for a case study within the context of Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane (AUI). The goal is to show how some of the features of python can be used to expose hidden aspects of a given topic of study, in this case the student. We conducted a quantitative and qualitative research methods on the account of marriage between AUI students. Our results reveal that 33.6% of the alumni respondents married a former school mate from AUI and 32.1% of currently enrolled students reported that they have already met a future partner.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-02

Full Paper Track 02 — Virtual

Conference
10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST

Promotion of Bolivian higher education in science and engineering by STEM engagement activities through the participation in NASA HERC

Fabio Diaz Palacios, Alejandro Nuñez Arroyo, Karen Vidaurre Torrez, Osvaldo Quinteros Terrazas, Marcelo Velasquez Enriquez and Mariana Molina Montes (Universidad Catolica Boliviana & CIDIMEC, Bolivia)

2
STEM engagement goal is to drive a systematic approach to influence students across a spectrum of learning. In a developing country, like Bolivia, the inclusion of STEM education for the educational system can derive in the improvement of its outcomes at different levels. Information acquisition, intrinsic interest as well as further research and technology development could be achieved by the implementation of new approaches focused on stimulating the thirst for knowledge in young people. This paper helps to understand the actual educational system of Bolivia and how the participation into international competencies such as NASA Human Exploration Rover Challenge through engagement activities can bring a positive impact in order to promote higher education related to the fields of space, science and engineering. And how new careers such as Mechatronics Engineering helps to this new educational process showing the activities, challenges and methods made during this path. Index terms - Aerospace, Bolivia, Education, HERC, Mechatronics, NASA, STEM, engagement.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Impact of Generative AI Adoption in Academia and how it influences Ethics, Cognitive Thinking and AI Singularity

Daniel Marimekala (Irving A. Robbins Middle School, USA); John Lamb (Pace University, USA)

2
Our Gen Alpha, born between year 2010 and 2024 see and experience more of AI and they adapt quickly to AI and will have less impact on advancements in Technology when compared to Generation X (1965-1980); Generation Y (Millennials) born from 1980 to 1994; Generation Z from 1995 to 2009. The reason is that Gen Alpha constantly uses electronic gadgets either in gaming, learning or for social media. They are susceptible quickly to Generative AI when compared to Gen X, Gen Y or Gen Z. Especially in academia, where Gen Alpha is more encouraged to generative AI such as ChatGPT in homework, assignments, and research. Well, this is a good approach for those who are struggling to complete their work or for those who do not have a clue how to complete their homework, assignment, or research. On other hand, the Generative AI tools such as ChatGPT are slowly becoming a part of the system that students lean on the Generative AI tool instead of doing research or thinking critically. As a result, there will be some behavioral changes that will be developed over a period. These behavioral changes are impatient for answers to the problems, express panic while solving a problem, shows anxiety, low self-esteem in solving problem, and low confidence factor. There is always a positive side of Generative AI, if we look at it from a different angle. Some of them are, it helps an individual and guides them with possible answers, all individuals can ask questions using prompt engineering and get responses. But the fact of the matter is how authentic the response from Generative AI is a question? Can the author quote the responses he/she received from ChatGPT and How can we avoid plagiarism? How can we reduce bias? How can we avoid AI singularity?
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-03

Full Paper Track 03 — Virtual

Conference
10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST

Game-based Assessment for Computational Thinking: A Systematic Review

Qi Luo (Macao Polytechnic University, Macao & Heyuan Polytechnic, China); Shuhan Zhang (Macao Polytechnic University, Macao)

1
Computational thinking (CT) has become an indispensable skill in the 21st century and has permeated into K-12 education at all levels. The evaluation of CT has become a crucial concern for educators and researchers. Currently, while extensive research has investigated the assessment of students' CT conceptual understanding, the measurement of their thinking processes is less involved. The game-based assessment appears to address this issue by analyzing students' behaviors and reactions during the gameplay process, which has become an emerging assessment tool in CT education. This drives the need for a comprehensive overview of this field. To fill this gap, this study aims to conduct a systematic literature review on the assessment of CT through games. It explores CT skills assessed through games, focusing on target groups, game forms, and benefits. A total of fifteen studies were examined. Findings indicate that algorithmic thinking, problem decomposition, pattern recognition, and abstraction were commonly assessed in games. Different ways for assessing CT skills in games were identified, involving progression level, log data, and manual coding. The benefits of CT game-based assessments were broadly reported, such as enjoyable experiences for students, instant feedback, easy administration for teachers and researchers, and richer information on students' cognitive processes. However, limited has been done in exploring the use of digital games for younger age groups, and the psychometric qualities of the tools were hardly reported in the reviewed studies. The study sheds light on the research and teaching practices in using games and interactive assessment platforms in CT education.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

MBTI Prediction Study Using Word2Vec

Isabelle Lee (USA)

0
As internet usage increases, the amount of data, such as text and images, being created is growing dramatically. Nowadays, we live our lives by sharing and obtaining information through various online platforms. Since individuals primarily share their lives and information through text, text not only contains information but also conveys emotions and psychological states. Additionally, personality type analyses like MBTI are used to understand an individual's psychological state. However, MBTI requires a significant number of surveys and is challenging to capture rapidly changing emotions. This study utilizes Twitter-based data to train an MBTI prediction model and analyze the personalities revealed in the results through short texts. Furthermore, by analyzing written content, it can determine current emotional states and identify words and sentence patterns predominantly used by each MBTI type. Through this research, rapid psychological analysis can be conducted using short texts, and user patterns can be predicted. This study can check while exchanging conversations or texts, which can reduce the cost of psychological and personality tests.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-04

Full Paper Track 04 — Virtual

Conference
10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST

A-level Mathematics Curriculum Design for Cultivating Top Innovators

Dingyuan Xu (Beijing RCF Experimental School, China); Xiang Gong (Princeton International School of Mathematics and Science, USA); Min Wang (Beijing Chaoyang RCF Dongba School, China)

2
The cultivation of top innovators through curriculum reform in high schools is a topic of great interest. The A-Level Center of Beijing RCF Experimental School has embarked on an innovative approach by establishing experimental groups and integrating multiple A-level courses. This article focuses on curriculum integration and presents the concepts, principles, steps, and insights regarding the curriculum design of A-level courses for cultivating top innovators. The steps involved include 1) Establishing curriculum integration goals based on the requirements of A-level courses and the mathematics entrance examinations of Oxford University and the University of Cambridge, 2) Investigating student profile, including academic performance, motivation, learning needs and preferences, 3) Systematically organizing course content by creating three "arteries" (pure math, mechanics, and statistics) that connect nine main "hubs" (nine A-Level courses) and 62 points of interest (62 important topics), and 4) Implementing classroom activities such as presentations and discussions to enhance the understanding. Additionally, this article proposes future development directions, including further exploration of the value of curriculum in fostering individuals, research on the integration of various curriculum forms, promoting collaboration with the school counselor's office, and conducting systematic investigations into the mechanisms of cultivating top innovators.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Technological Tools as a Motivational Strategy in English Language Learning among University

Cristina Paez Quinde (Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador Sede Ambato & Instituto Superior Tecnológico España, Ecuador); Estefania Ojeda (Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador Sede Ambato, Ecuador)

0
This article investigates the impact of technological tools as a motivational strategy in the teaching and learning process of the English language among university students. In a globalized context, the importance of English language proficiency has grown, emphasizing the need to keep students interested and engaged in their learning. In response to this situation, educational technologies emerge as a potential solution. It is highlighted how these tools provide an interactive and engaging way of learning, incorporating elements of gamification, personalized and immediate feedback, and flexibility to access resources. These features drive students' intrinsic motivation, granting them greater control over their learning process. Furthermore, the article explores how technologies can enhance grammatical accuracy, pronunciation, and encourage practice in authentic situations through exposure to real English media. However, it emphasizes that the adoption of these tools should be balanced and ethical, complementing traditional instruction rather than replacing it. The article also considers challenges and limitations related to the use of technologies in English language learning, such as technological access disparities and potential reduction in social interaction. The research underscores the importance of careful planning and appropriate selection of tools that align with pedagogical goals and student needs.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Using the Swin-Transformer for Real & Fake Data Recognition in PC-Model

Jiyoon Park (Branksome Hall Asia, Korea (South))

0
Recently, due to the rapid development of generative AI technologies, the use of AI-generated images has increased significantly, making the distinction between real and fake images crucial. Generative images may be used in various ways such as data training and fast image generation, but a potential for misuse, such as in Deep fake or spreading false information, still exists. This study explores a novel model using the architecture of Swin-Transformer to distinguish between fake and real images generated based on CNN (Convolutional Neural Networks) and GAN (Generative Adversarial Networks). The Swin-Transformer, a successor model of Vision in Transformer (ViT), applies the structure of the Transformer, which has shown outstanding performance in natural language processing, to the field of images and demonstrates excellent pixel-level segmentation performance. Real and fake images require detailed pixel-level analysis, in which the Swin-Transformer exhibits higher accuracy. Improving the performance of distinguishing between real and fake images is expected to set limits on indiscreet image generation, bringing further effects such as preventing the indiscriminate use of AI images through program-based discrimination/legal sanctions.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Technological Resources as a Strategy in Student Learning at the Polytechnic Training Center

Cristina Paez Quinde (Pontificia Universidad Catolica del Ecuador Sede Ambato & Instituto Superior Tecnológico España, Ecuador); Alvaro Monar (Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Ecuador)

0
This scientific article focuses on the identification of technological resources used as strategies in student learning at the Polytechnic Training Center. The objective was to investigate how these technological resources can contribute to the teaching and learning process effectively. Through a mixed data collection approach that included student surveys and teacher interviews, various technological tools and applications used in the educational environment were analyzed. The results revealed significant benefits of integrating these resources, such as increased interactivity, personalized learning, access to updated information, and a more practical and relevant approach for students. While challenges were identified, such as the digital divide and the need for teacher training, the results supported the idea that technological resources can be powerful strategies to enhance student learning at the Polytechnic Training Center. In conclusion, this study provides a clear and evidence-based insight into the importance of technological resources as strategies in student learning. These findings support the need to continue exploring and implementing suitable technological resources in educational environments to promote effective and enriching learning.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-05

Full Paper Track 05 — Virtual

Conference
10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 10:30 AM — 11:00 AM EST

Bridging IoT Education Through Activities: A Game-Oriented Approach with Real-time Data Visualization

Nurzaman Ahmed (Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, USA); Flavio Esposito (Saint Louis University, USA); Nadia Shakoor (Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, USA)

0
The rapid evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT) has underscored the importance of comprehensive educational strategies to impart IoT concepts and applications to a diverse audience. Given IoT's pervasive impact, there is hence a pressing need for effective education in this area. Currently, there is a significant gap between existing educational strategies for IoT and the dynamic, engaging approaches needed to captivate a diverse audience, particularly young learners. The challenge lies in developing a methodology that not only educates but also motivates students e.g., from Grade 2 to Grade 12. To address this need, we developed an innovative, activity-based educational framework, integrating interactive and immersive learning methods, aimed at simplifying complex IoT concepts with smart agricultural application in mind for early learners. We outline this novel pedagogical approach, detailing how specific IoT components are taught through targeted activities. The paper should serve as a guide for educators to implement this framework and encourage readers to recognize the importance of adopting new teaching strategies for IoT. Through the implementation of this framework, exemplified in a case study of a plant care game, we have observed an increased engagement and understanding of IoT concepts among our target students. These findings indicate the effectiveness of our approach in real-world educational settings.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Variational Autoencoders using Convolutional neural network for highly advanced cyber threats

Anita priyadarshini Durai pandian (Aarhus University, Denmark)

4
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the detection of highly advanced cyber threats demands innovative approaches. This abstract introduces a novel framework that harnesses the power of Variational Autoencoders (VAEs) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) for advanced cyber threat detection. The proposed system is designed to learn, model, and uncover subtle anomalies within network traffic data, enabling the identification of complex and sophisticated cyberattacks. In this framework, a VAE is trained to learn a probabilistic latent representation of network data, allowing it to capture essential features and structures inherent in both normal and malicious traffic. The VAE serves as the foundation for a subsequent CNN-based anomaly detection model, which utilizes the latent representations to identify patterns, outliers, and cyber threats. By integrating these two neural network architectures, the system leverages the VAE's data compression and representation learning capabilities, while the CNN excels in pattern recognition and anomaly detection. The deployment of this advanced system within network infrastructure empowers organizations to continuously monitor and adapt to emerging threats. Its performance is evaluated using established metrics, ensuring the detection of cyber threats with high precision and recall. Additionally, the model can be integrated with external threat intelligence sources to enhance its threat detection capabilities. The VAE-CNN framework presents a promising approach for addressing the ever-increasing complexity of cyber threats, providing an adaptable, intelligent, and data-driven solution for the protection of critical digital assets and network infrastructure. Its ability to uncover highly advanced cyber threats has the potential to significantly enhance the security posture of organizations in the face of evolving cybersecurity challenges.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-21

Full Paper Track 21 — On-site

Conference
11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST

Healthy Longevity: Smart Home in a Smart City

Ramana Reddy (West Virginia University, USA); Layth Sliman (EFREI- Paris, France); Sumitra Reddy (West Virginia University, USA); Ravi Raman (Alligent Research, USA); Emily Francis and Garrett Owens (West Virginia University, USA)

0
The elderly form one sixth of the population of the United States and as they age, they will need increasing amounts of healthcare services and personal assistance. However, since nursing homes and assisted living facilities are expensive in the US, the overwhelming majority of the elderly reside at home as long as possible. There is a critical need for solutions that help the elderly stay independent and healthy in their homes. Smart home technologies provide new ways of monitoring and controlling appliances and the environment in a home. Advances in remote health monitoring and telehealth services are enabling chronic and even some acute care patients to be treated at home. Smart city initiatives are implementing digital infrastructure to improve services to residents and visitors. The authors make the case for extending the smart home into the community through applications and services targeting the needs of the elderly. This will promote Healthy Longevity throughout the community.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Enabling High-Volume, Long-Term Data Collection Using Ultrasound Automation

Vinav Shah (The Pingry School & New Jersey Institute of Technology, USA)

0
Ultrasonic testing is crucial for the nondestructive evaluation of structural integrity, materials characterization, and quality control. However, continuous manual operation of ultrasound equipment is labor-intensive and requires skilled oversight. This paper presents a cost-effective, highly-customizable approach to automate ultrasound systems using open-source technologies. Initially, a pulser-receiver is externally triggered, activating the transmitting transducer to generate a sound wave. Once the wave has propagated through the sample, the receiver converts the wave into an electrical signal, which is then relayed to an oscilloscope. The waveform generator synchronizes the pulser-receiver and oscilloscope, ensuring accurate time-of-flight calculations. The oscilloscope is configured with pyVISA using SCPI commands, setting key parameters for the ultrasound data collection. The waveform generator, controlled with pySerial, provides trigger signals to simultaneously control pulser activation and oscilloscope triggering. Acquired waveforms are then processed and saved for analysis. Key parameters like amplitude, rise time, and time-of-flight can be extracted from the data. The modular automation scripts allow users to easily adjust settings such as trigger amplitude and frequency, making this automation methodology applicable across different hardwares. A graphical user interface (GUI) was also developed, enabling users to easily adjust settings. Results validate accuracy against manual operation, with a mean squared error of 4.299 × 10-6. Using this system, remote nondestructive testing and long-duration characterization experiments can be performed hands-free with high accuracy at a low cost. This flexible framework also automates ultrasound data collection without proprietary software or hardware lock-in, thereby democratizing the ability to conduct research using ultrasound techniques.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Teaching with Zoom vs. The Metaverse A Bandwidth Use Study

Andres Fortino (NYU, USA); Prakarsha Malhotra (New York University, USA)

1
With remote collaboration platforms playing an increasingly vital role amid the predominance of online education and remote work, discernment of their networking and bandwidth demands is imperative. This research investigates the bandwidth consumption patterns of two prominent platforms - Oculus Quest 2 virtual reality (VR) headset equipped with Zoom WorkRooms, and the Zoom desktop application. Controlled experiments were conducted emulating real-world remote collaboration scenarios like one-on-one discussions and team meetings. Network traffic was captured using Wireshark and rigorously analyzed to quantify and compare bandwidth utilization. Key findings reveal VR's superiority over Zoom in team contexts, yet higher overall bandwidth requirements. While VR maximizes immersion via visually enriched 3D environments, such vividness necessitates additional networking resources. A comparative analysis highlights VR's unparalleled interactive milieu that could amplify student engagement, contrasted with Zoom's broader compatibility and accessibility. Consequently, the optimal choice is contingent on specific demands, emphasizing learning objectives and technological constraints. Educators must weigh immersive experiences against universal access. Our research illuminates the bandwidth-immersion tradeoff, providing vital insights for institutions weighing VR adoption. Further studies can explore VR's pedagogical efficacy, or incorporate additional metrics like video quality. As remote education and work evolve, such technology evaluations will inform strategic infrastructure and platform investments.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Evaluating Large Language Model Accuracy in Structured Academic Settings: Three Case Studies

Andres Fortino (NYU, USA); Zoey Yang (New York University, USA)

1
As large language models (LLMs) are increasingly deployed in real-world applications, concerns exist regarding their accuracy and potential for hallucination. However, few studies evaluate performance systematically across academic contexts. This paper summarizes three case studies assessing LLM accuracy in classroom analytics exercises. In the first, students tested ChatGPT 3.5 responses to technical questions in graduate courses over 12 weeks. Over 95% factual concordance was found, with repetition being the primary inconsistency. The second study successfully replicated 167 statistical analyses from an Excel exercise book in ChatGPT 4 covering techniques like regression and inference. No discernible accuracy issues appeared. The third case evaluated Claude 2 and ChatGPT 4 on Harvard Business School cases and associated questions across four subjects, with student teams finding perfect alignment with faculty provided solutions. Collectively, the case studies reveal three key themes. First, constrained problem scopes limit deviations in accuracy. Second, performance relies on relevant domain exposure during pretraining. Third, high grading agreements position LLMs as credible teaching assistants, though personalization and originality remain inadequate. Contrary to wider benchmarks, LLMs demonstrate high fidelity on academic tasks, allaying concerns about hallucination. Speculatively, restricted interfaces could enhance reliability. Domain-specific finetuning also remains vital. The studies support LLMs' use for automated tutoring and analysis, complementing human educators. Further assessments on more advanced reasoning tasks are still necessary.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Bridging the ‘town and gown' divide: Experiential learning for students via a community cyberhygiene training program

Aunshul Rege, Gabrielle Spence, Rachel Bleiman, Sean Mitchell and Jonathan Latko (Temple University, USA)

0
Cyberhygiene is a necessary tool for navigating today's ever-evolving tech-centric society. Unfortunately, discussion and development of this skillset rarely tends to go beyond the four walls of the classroom and into the wider community. This paper shares a pilot student course project conducted in Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters that aimed to bridge academia and the community. Specifically, undergraduate and graduate students shared their knowledge on, and had conversations about, cyberhygiene and cybersecurity with the community. By combining academic resources, student learning, and key community partnerships, the authors created and facilitated a learning space for those who might not otherwise have access to cyberhygiene training. This paper shares student perspectives on how this project was valuable to themselves and the community; it also shares student recommendations for project improvement. The paper concludes with a discussion about fostering community-academia relationships, establishing trust, and suggestions for developing similar projects in the community
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Integrated HIV Risk Assessment: A Technological Approach for Personalized Testing and Prevention

Mingchao He (Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey, USA); Wangliyi Ge (Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey,USA); Minghan He (Rutgers Preparatory School, USA)

0
This initiative strives to develop an online application with integrated HIV rapid testing capabilities, offering crucial support to healthcare professionals in the assessment, testing, education, and treatment of potential HIV cases. The foundation of this work rests on a meticulous analysis of the 2020 CDC report on HIV in the United States, delving into demographic aspects such as race, ethnicity, lifestyles, sexual orientation, and residential locations pertaining to individuals identified as AIDS patients and HIV carriers. The outcome is the creation of a comprehensive survey and aquasim question set, complemented by a model adept at computing the risk of HIV infection. Leveraging advanced machine learning techniques, this model provides personalized suggestions based on calculated risk, as demonstrated by our evaluation indicating its robust performance in conducting HIV risk assessments. This multifaceted approach amalgamates technological innovation with demographic insights, positioning the application as a valuable tool for informed decision-making in HIV prevention and care within diverse demographic contexts.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-22

Full Paper Track 22 — On-site

Conference
11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST

Hoist Control Stabilization with Real-Time Gyroscopic Data

Howard Yu, Rui Peng, Meiyu Zheng and Zhilin Huang (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, USA); Luyi Tang (Virginia Polytecnic Institute and State University, USA); Mary Lanzerotti (Virginia Tech, USA)

0
A typical aerial medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) rescue retrieves a patient into the helicopter by shortening a cable with length 30 ft to 300 ft. This paper is dedicated to the design, construction, testing, and analysis of the swing stabilization of a gyroscope-equipped payload with variable length control of the cable. The stabilization algorithm uses real-time gyroscope data to control the hoist. Tracking software is employed to meticulously acquire experimental data from videos of the rescues. These data are subsequently analyzed using MATLAB. This process aims to emphasize the necessity for enhancements in sensor platforms and to establish precise constraints for future rescue scenarios. Testing results for a rescue scenario show that a swinging 6.0 m cable with an initial angle of approximately 20 deg is shortened to approximately 0.2 m in about 75 s in two phases. In the first phase, the cable length decreases to 3.7 m in ≈ 72 s by shortening at the ends of the swing. In the second phase, the cable is continuously shortened to ≈ 0.2 m at t ≈ 75 s. The results demonstrate that swing stabilization with reduced swing angle is achieved using variable length control hoisting.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Utilizing Technology to Prevent Distracted Walking

Anisha Marrapu (Fairfax County Public Schools & STEMifyGirls, USA)

0
Background: The increasing concern of pedestrian distraction presents a significant global threat to road safety. Individuals who partake in distracted walking not only endanger their own safety but also pose risks to their loved ones and fellow road users. Importance: Distracted walking can adversely affect the brain and eyes, heightening the likelihood of injuries or, in severe cases, fatalities. In the United States, texting and walking alone contribute to a staggering 11,000 daily injuries, totaling 4,015,000 injuries annually. Purpose: This study aims to mitigate the issue of distracted walking, specifically while using a cellphone, by introducing a simple yet effective mobile application. The application is designed to detect instances when a person is walking and engaged with their cell phone. It then delivers timely reminders at optimal intervals, set at every 3 minutes, to enhance the user's awareness of their surroundings. Methods: The application utilizes the Google Activity API to monitor user activity and the Map API to identify paths and road crossings. Results: Extensive testing under various conditions has demonstrated the application's effectiveness, yielding positive results. Conclusion: Stepwise, an app that can detect movement and remind users to stay aware of their surroundings while walking, can potentially prevent traffic accidents by involving pedestrians by at least 75%%, reduce healthcare costs caused by pedestrian injuries by 60%, and increase pedestrians' awareness by an incredible 98%
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Implementation of Convolutional Neural Networks for Classifying Lung Cancer Types from Histopathological Images

John Patrick Capocyan (William P. Clements Highschool, USA)

1
When analyzing histopathological images for lung cancer detection, experts could potentially make mistakes when diagnosing cancer types for their patients. This is significant because misdiagnosing the type of lung cancer would lead to an incorrect treatment losing the patient time, money and even their life. One potential solution that could solve this problem is the development of a machine learning model that can accurately distinguish and classify lung cancer types. In this work, I attempt to solve this problem by implementing a convolutional neural network. I trained a DenseNet machine learning model on a dataset consisting of histopathological images of various types of lung cancer. The model reached a 94.07% accuracy with a 0.1646 loss in classifying three types of lung cancer. This is significant because the model learned to detect features that are possibly difficult for the human to ascertain and outperforms other models that attempt to address the same goal. I plan to take this work forward by training and testing my model on additional cancer datasets and potentially train it to be able better distinguish between more types of cancer. This research has the potential to save lives if implemented in a clinical setting.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Exploring Gender Dynamics in STEM Education through the lens of Large Language Models

Chris Shaner (Texas State University, USA); Henry Griffith (San Antonio College, USA); Heena Rathore (Texas State University, USA)

0
Given the increasing use of Large Language Models (LLMs) in educational settings, they hold promise as valuable tools for individuals exploring potential career paths in STEM fields. While considerable research has focused on LLMs' applications in digital and smart education, there remains a notable gap in exploring how these models perceive gender disparities in STEM education. To address this gap and examine LLM's understanding towards gender disparity in STEM education, we developed a set of prompts to analyze gender discourse in STEM education using open-source LLM models. Our study yielded word clouds generated from the language models' responses, providing insights into perceptions of women in STEM, distribution of scholarships, diversity within STEM classes, retention rates, and challenges faced by both genders. As seen from the results LLMs offer a unique perspective on gender dynamics in STEM, revealing progress and challenges while empowering individuals, especially underrepresented groups, to actively contribute to a more balanced and diverse STEM community.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

ChatGPT in the Classroom: Experimentation in a Python Class for Non-Computing Majors

Christelle Scharff, Fnu Kaleemunnisa, Krishna Mohan Bathula and Begimai Zhumakova (Pace University, USA)

1
AI-based chatbots such as ChatGPT present themselves as technologies to assist students in their learning. This study explores the use of ChatGPT in solving Python programming assignments in an introduction to computing class taken by students who are new to programming and non-computing majors. It uses a mixed research approach and involves experimental and control groups. The experimental group used ChatGPT, while the control group did not. The learning satisfaction and overall attitude of students toward ChatGPT, as well as gained Python skills, were analyzed and evaluated through surveys, Google Colab notebook assignments, and ChatGPT transcripts, as data collection instruments. While the study is limited in scope, it shows promising results as students considered the tool as an enabler to solve different programming problems. The study could not conclude that ChatGPT motivates students in learning Python. The evaluation of transcripts show that students need to be trained on how to use ChatGPT, from using critical thinking to writing prompts. In parallel, instructors have to change the way they create, reuse and present assignments to challenge students.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Introduction, Evaluation, and Pedagogies of Perusall as a Social Leaning Platform in Education

Wenbing Zhao and Xiongyi Liu (Cleveland State University, USA)

0
In this paper, we present a concise review of Perusall-based studies in higher education. Perusall is an online platform for social learning. Perusall is well supported by popular learning management systems and we have seen more and more instructors embrace the platform for pre-class reading and post-class discussions. There is already a sizable amount of literature about various aspects of Perusall. Hence, a comprehensive review about Perusall-based studies is timely and could be beneficial for both teachers and students to learn about the platform in a systematic manner. This review is organized by four research questions: (1) what is the context in which Perusall has been used; (2) how Perusall has been used; (3) what are outcomes of Perusall-based studies; and (4) what are the theoretical foundations of Perusall-based studies. We show that Perusall has been used in virtually all academic discipline; students generally have positive opinions about Perusall, and there is evidence that Perusall could enhance student engagement in reading assignments.
Speaker
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Session Full-23

Full Paper Track 23 — On-site

Conference
11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST

NxTEL: Next Generation Technology-Enhanced Learning Platform for Computer Science Education

Wenbing Zhao and Xiongyi Liu (Cleveland State University, USA)

0
In this paper, we describe a personalized learning environment facilitated by a next-generation TEL platform, NxTEL, which is a full-stack interactive application platform that runs on mobile phones and tablets as iOS or Android native apps, and on computers via Web browsers. NxTEL incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to guide an individual student for self-paced learning and assessment, as well as to facilitate computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) between a group of students. Furthermore, NxTEL encourages students to create curriculum content to the platform. This will not only enrich the content of the platform, but also more importantly, cultivate stronger student ownership of the knowledge. Finally, NxTEL incorporates gamification elements and social networking elements to further engage students. As a case study, we elaborate how to use the proposed NxTEL platform in a computer networks course. More specifically, first, we develop a multi-dimensional knowledge map for the Computer Network curriculum. Second, based on the knowledge map, we develop AI-driven modules for self-paced learning and assessment. Third, we develop AI-driven modules for computer-supported collaborative learning. Fourth, we develop a theoretical framework towards the conceptual understanding of motivation and self-efficacy for NxTEL-powered education in computer science.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Assessing the Impact of Professional Development on K-12 CS Education: A One-Year Follow-Up Survey Analysis

Yulia Kumar, Anjana Manikandan, Ethan Kupershtein, Jenny Li and Patricia Morreale (Kean University, USA)

0
The paper presents the findings from a one-year follow-up survey analyzing the impact of a targeted professional development (PD) program conducted by a state Computer Science (CS) hub on K-12 CS education. It scrutinizes the long-term effects of the PD initiative on educators' pedagogical strategies and students' readiness for college-level CS coursework. The study focuses on integrating the introductory course CS0, which shapes educational strategies and outcomes. Through the lens of three research questions, the analysis delves into the enhancements in educators' instructional approaches following PD, the ongoing influence of PD on the integration of interdisciplinary methods within CS curricula, and the correlation between PD and student engagement and achievement in CS disciplines. The survey of thirty educators reveals a sustained implementation of acquired pedagogical practices and a positive influence on student college readiness in CS. Moreover, the study underscores the pivotal role of PD in elevating educators' proficiency in delivering advanced CS concepts, ultimately benefiting student learning trajectories. The concluding remarks advocate including Large Language Models (LLMs) as a supplementary tool to enrich the CS educational paradigm. The recommendations provided herein serve as a strategic roadmap for stakeholders aiming to elevate the standard of CS education through PD and curricular development.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

The Quest to Uncover the Secrets of The Cosmos: A Study of the Journey to Interstellar Depths and Propulsion Systems Development

Aditya N Mishra (River Hill High School & Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, USA)

0
Interstellar travel is one of humanity's most captivating topics. Fantasized from movies to research laboratories, scientists and engineers alike have been pushing for its development since the conclusion of the Space race in the 1970s. Today, governments do not always see eye to eye with researchers, such as astrophysicists Carl Sagan or Avi Loeb. This paper endeavors to advance the prospect of Interstellar travel by examining the rationales that underscore its significance, the compulsory propulsion systems that necessitate development, the specific celestial objects or locations that warrant exploration, and the projected timeline for the inaugural probe to arrive at its target Interstellar destination. The study involved interviewing prominent experts who have devoted their careers to advancing Interstellar travel. The findings indicate that the most practical and cost-effective propulsion system for this mission is the Photon sail. The target destination for this mission is Alpha Centauri, and with a collaborative effort between private and government sectors, unmanned missions could potentially be launched toward Alpha Centauri by the end of the century.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Understanding Wavefunctions Without the Wave Equation

Oguz Tanatar (Richard Montgomery High School, USA)

1
In high school STEM education, it is often the case that quite intuitive concepts are complicated through the introduction of formulas to describe phenomena without comprehensive proofs. Sometimes, these proofs are not given because they require mathematics that the students do not know. One of these cases is with sound waves. Despite being one of the simplest kinds of waves, and waves being one of the most prevalent concepts in physics, they are usually not proven to students. This paper will analyze the vibrational energy of a string transferring to the air, and focus on understanding and deriving the wavefunction with minimal mathematics. It will also analyze the resonance of other strings theoretically and experimentally. We will first generally examine wave phenomena and define terms, then focus on the specific vibrations of a string & how it can produce sound (as in a guitar), and finally examine more specific aspects of how certain vibrations will create other kinds. The final matter will be considered with respect to the data gathered in the experiment that will be outlined below. This will be done in the hopes of creating a better understanding of how waves propagate through space. Through a better understanding of mechanical waves (such as sound), understanding analogs may become easier. Further, understanding sound further may make it easier to design more precisely.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Build to Win: Electrical Hardware Opportunities for STEM Education

Daniel Monagle and Eric A. Ponce (Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA); Steven Leeb (MIT, USA); Erik K. Saathoff, Dylan E. Brooks and Thomas C. Krause (Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA); Daisy H. Green (University of Hawaii at Manoa, USA)

1
Engineering outreach and introductory courses are essential for motivating and training the next generation of capable engineers. Accessibility and portability of the infrastructure for a STEM course is critical for spreading STEM education and motivation efforts. The ubiquity of student personal computers and laptops provides a convenient platform for introducing computer programming, but the relatively cumbersome equipment deemed necessary for a hands-on electronics learning environment contributes to the lack of electronic circuit hardware exposure for many K-12 students and university undergraduates. This paper presents the relatively low-cost, versatile, electronics platform we have developed at MIT upon which our new, hands-on introductory STEM electrical engineering course has been built and taught in recent years. This paper focuses its discussion on the power supply and measurement systems we have produced that allow students and instructors to engage in hands-on electric circuit exercises and projects without the requirement for expensive laboratory infrastructure. Example demonstrations of introductory laboratory exercises using our platform are shown.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Developing Students' Independent Problem-Solving Skills through the Heuristic Teaching Method in a Game Development Capstone Course

Jordan Murphy, Katie Corcoran, Allison Llanos, Weitian Wang, Michelle M. Zhu and Rui Li (Montclair State University, USA)

1
Game development requires highly independent skills such as problem-solving, programming, creativity, and critical thinking. These skills can hardly be taught via traditional prescriptive education methods which heavily rely on instructors to lead students using the same known solutions for limited questions particularly designed for the classes. To address this issue, this paper presents an educational practice in game development education that implements heuristic methods of teaching. To introduce real-world questions into the game development capstone project, the course uses the context of driving simulation which has been used in lots of areas ranging from the entertainment industry to the automotive industry. This topic requires students to explore and develop a comprehensive solution that effectively integrates components from software, hardware, and driver commands. In this capstone project, students were guided to collaboratively develop a driving game on a simulator that combines control features of a manual vehicle (such as haptic force feedback, gearshift, clutch operation) with fun features of the game (such as interactive environments, upgradable vehicles, and power-ups). Through developing this game, students are developed with abilities in locating real-world questions, building project plans, implementing feasible solutions, and disseminating their games to public players on the game day hosted at the end of the course. An example of students' collaborative game development project is provided in this paper to demonstrate the effectiveness of the implemented heuristic method of teaching in game development education.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Enter Zoom
Session Full-24

Full Paper Track 24 — On-site

Conference
11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST

Challenges and Opportunities in Malignant Image Reconstruction Using GAN: A Review

Arjun Sriram (Fairleigh Dickinson University Teaneck NJ 07621, USA); Avimanyou K Vatsa (Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck, USA); Anvi Kumar (Monroe Township High School 200 Schoolhouse Rd Monroe Township NJ 08831, USA); Savya Vats (Bergenfield High School 80 S Prospect Ave Bergenfield NJ 07621, USA); Arav Kumar (Monroe Township High School 200 Schoolhouse Rd Monroe Township NJ 08831, USA)

0
Melanoma, the most common form of skin cancer, occurs when abnormal cells grow in the skin. It could be detected in the early stage to cure and save patients' lives. However, early detection is possible from dermoscopic images to train, test, and validate through deep learning models [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. However, our current dataset is unbalanced – fewer malignant images in comparison to benign images. Therefore, this paper reviewed different Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN) algorithms to generate synthetic malignant images. The variety of GAN algorithms, including Deep Convolutional GAN (DCGAN), Conditional GAN (cGAN), Progressive GAN (PGAN), Wasserstein GAN (WGAN), GFP (Generative Facial Prior) GAN [], Radio GAN, and Cycle GAN, etc. These algorithms provide many opportunities and have many challenges in the reconstruction of natural and correct patterns of images. The major challenges include different sizes of images, preprocessing of raw images, correct number of epochs, appropriate training of generator and encoder, discriminator methods of GANs, etc. These GAN methods generated images are useful in achieving better performance of image classification.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

A Metabolomics Analysis of Pregnancy Complications

Zoe E Winston (United States Military Academy, USA)

0
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) pose a significant risk to maternal health, affecting 15.9% of pregnancies globally. While previous research has linked HDP to inflammation and endothelial damage, comprehensive understanding and predictive biomarkers are lacking. This study aims to identify key metabolic disturbances associated with HDP, addressing inconsistencies in prior studies and optimizing predictive models. Utilizing first-trimester serum specimens from 51 HDP cases and 109 controls, obtained from the Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth repository, untargeted metabolomics data was acquired using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Various statistical models, including OPLS-DA, stepwise logistic regression, ridge regression, LASSO regression, and Elastic Net regression, were employed to identify significant signals associated with HDP. The study revealed distinct metabolite profiles associated with HDP. Stepwise logistic regression with ridge regression demonstrated the highest predictive capability, reducing the original 3122 signals to 15 significant variables. Vitamin D3, bile acid synthesis, steroid hormone, and Vitamin E pathways were identified as significant in HDP, with pathway disturbances observed in gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia cases.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Exploring the Transformative Influence of Student Innovation Competitions and Programs: Insights from their Organizers

Fay Berig (The Pennsylvania State University, USA); Sadan Kulturel-Konak and Abdullah Konak (Penn State Berks, USA)

0
Student innovation competitions and programs have gained substantial recognition as the number of students entering science, technology, engineering, mathematics, entrepreneurial, and business fields continues to increase. Student participants, mentors, organizers, and faculty members see these competitions and programs as catalysts for fostering creativity, initiative, and entrepreneurial spirit. Innovation competitions and programs augment the problem-solving skills and creative abilities of many participating students and mentors. Participating in these competitions and programs leaves students with many important skills to benefit them in their entrepreneurial futures. Gaining these skills often leads to showcasing them in various contexts. Such skills include creativity, leadership, problem-solving, and more. By exploring the benefits and skills that student participants gain from innovation competitions and programs through organizers' perspectives, we better understand the everlasting impact of such programs. Drawing insights from interviews with experienced organizers of innovation competitions and programs, this article outlines the skills students gain from participating in these programs.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Designing an Online Jigsaw Puzzle Task to Assess Collaborative Problem-Solving Skills

Qizhi Xu, Zongting Ge and Mengxiao Zhu (University of Science and Technology of China, China); Jing Wang (Anhui Xiyue Educational Technology Co. Ltd., China); Mo Zhang (Educational Testing Service, USA)

0
Competency in Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) is recognized as one of the core skills for the 21st-century workforce. However, the field of CPS research needs a multi-validated assessment task that can enhance student engagement and provide rich learning analytics evidence for researchers. This paper introduces a game-based CPS task, Mondrian Geometric Fantasy (MGF), designed to meet these needs. The MGF task is a Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) task, integrating cognitive, motivational, emotional, and sociocultural dimensions in its design, fulfilling the fundamental conditions of collaborative learning. Moreover, the Design-Based Research approach and the Conceptual Assessment Framework were employed to guide the development of the task. After a small-scale focus group testing, the developers refined the MGF task based on the feedback received. The optimized MGF task underwent three rounds of implementation and validation in real-world settings. The results showed that students generally had a high level of satisfaction and engagement in the MGF task, and they demonstrated CPS skills in the MGF task. Moreover, it was observed that domain knowledge involved in the MGF task did not adversely affect students' performance. A large-scale dataset suitable for learning analysis was successfully collected and is being put into research.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Innovation Competitions in STEM Education: A Comprehensive Analysis of Attributes and Student Experiences

Alexa J Prince (Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA); Sadan Kulturel-Konak and Abdullah Konak (Penn State Berks, USA)

0
In order to gain technical and professional experience, many students in STEM fields participate in extracurricular activities, called such as Innovation Competition and Programs (ICPs). ICPs can offer students a hands-on experience in their field, fostering creativity and entrepreneurship while also solving problems as a team. While the literature emphasizes the many benefits that ICPs offer and examples of different types, there is not yet a broad discussion of different ICP attributes, or many documented student testimonials. This paper aims to establish a precise categorization of the various attributes found in such programs and examine actual student ICP experiences to understand how to adjust these attributes in order to provide students with the most positive experience possible. It is helpful to outline the potential attributes of ICPs due to their open-ended and university-dependent nature. In addition, student interview data provides insight into the overall experiences that students have had when participating in these programs, allowing connections to be made between student goals and the structure of the programs themselves.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Students' Education Preference Selection & Election with AI Computing Mechanism

Sai K Kamila (The Charter School of Wilmington, USA); Sai Namam Kamila (Conrad Schools of Science, USA)

1
In a complex maze of human connections, an enduring gap lingers, particularly between adults and children. As adults begin to acknowledge certain aspects, the ever-changing nature of a child's behavior and understanding introduces a recurring challenge. The perpetual cycle gives rise to a sense of neglect and misunderstanding in children. Moreover, this situation is heightened in educational settings where teachers sometimes fail to comprehend students' struggles. Indeed, instead of delving into root issues, punitive measures are employed, pushing the students into a detrimental spiral that impedes both learning and growth. Thus, this study addresses the challenge of truly understanding students by meticulously examining their behavioral patterns. Ultimately, the overarching goal is to create an artificial intelligence model using collected data that generates personalized and effective student study plans. This groundbreaking innovative solution aims to bridge the gap between an adult understanding and evolving children's needs, mitigating feelings of neglect and improving the overall educational experience. By embracing such an AI model, educational equitability and positive learning environments will be reinforced where students individually grow and learn for the betterment of society. As this AI model strives to comprehend the dynamics of the complex student life and their interests, this approach promises a transformative future.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-25

Full Paper Track 25 — On-site

Conference
11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 11:00 AM — 12:30 PM EST

Analysis of E. coli growth dynamics during Lambda(vir) phage infection reveals phage decay

Benjamin M Gitai (Princeton High School, USA); Joseph P Sheehan (Princeton University, USA)

0
Biological interactions like those between a pathogen and a host are intrinsically dynamic. The Luria-Delbruck experiment is a classic quantitative analysis demonstrating that the mutation rates of bacterial hosts are independent of the presence of their bacteriophage pathogens. However, this experiment was performed as an endpoint analysis. To determine if new insights could be gained from measuring the dynamics of bacterial-host interactions, we used a high- throughput spectrophotometer to repeat this classic experiment. We examined interactions between Escherichia coli bacteria and the lytic lambda(vir) phage to confirm the fundamental finding of the Luria-Delbruck experiment. Specifically, we demonstrated that the variance in the timing required for phage-resistant mutants to emerge increased as the size of the starting bacterial population decreased. In addition to confirming the Luria-Delbruck results, our analysis of the dynamics of bacterial growth in the presence of phage revealed unexpected findings, including the significant decay in lambda(vir) potency and the substantial impact of dead bacterial debris on culture density measurements. Phage are typically thought to be extremely stable, such that our discovery that their potency rapidly decays in experimental settings may have implications for real-world applications where phage potency is important, such as phage therapy pharmacology. Our results thus establish a more rapid method of analyzing bacterial resistant mutant fluctuations and illustrate how dynamical measurements can provide new insights into even extremely well-characterized experimental systems.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Makerspaces as a Catalyst for Levelling-Up the UK and Skills Development in STEM Subjects: A Sentiment Analysis

Maren Schnieder (Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge, United Kingdom (Great Britain)); Manoj Dora (Anglia Ruskin University, United Kingdom (Great Britain))

0
Makerspaces offer the general population access to traditional fabrication equipment (e.g. welder, table saw) and modern technology (e.g. CNC machines, 3D printers). Many researchers have suggested that makerspaces can be the catalyst for distributed manufacturing, circular economy, community building and education. By conducting a sentiment analysis, this study investigates whether the maker community agrees with the often-suggested benefits. The focus is especially on the role makerspaces can have in increasing the proliferation of new manufacturing technologies (e.g. distributed manufacturing, additive manufacturing) as well as the required skill development. The study uses over 5,000 reviews from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Of these 801 reviews were on makerspaces within the UK. The results highlight the positive attitude towards makerspaces in both rural and urban environments. In terms of UK's Levelling Up agenda, makerspaces enhance education, widen access to both traditional and new technologies as well as offer community-building and socialising opportunities. Using makerspaces for business purposes is not frequently discussed. However, makers do value distributed manufacturing technologies (i.e. 3D printers, CNC machines, digital technologies), which enables them to fabricate personalised items. The opportunity for a circular economy is rarely mentioned in the reviews.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Advancing Blockchain Learning in STEM Education Through A Comprehensive Hands-on Educational Approach

Thushari Hapuarachchi (University of South Florida, USA); Maryam Mapkar and Mohamed Rahouti (Fordham University, USA); Kaiqi Xiong (University of South Florida, USA)

0
The escalating frequency of cybersecurity incidents and the critical importance of blockchain technology in modern society underscore the imperative for enriched, hands-on educational programs in undergraduate Computer Science and Engineering disciplines. This urgency is driven by the need to cultivate a workforce proficient in navigating and mitigating the complexities associated with digital security threats, alongside leveraging blockchain innovations for secure, decentralized solutions. Incorporating comprehensive, experiential learning opportunities into academic curricula will ensure that students are not only well-versed in theoretical knowledge but also proficient in applying practical solutions to real-world challenges, thereby significantly enhancing their preparedness for the demands of the tech industry. This work explores integrating blockchain technology into STEM education, focusing on cybersecurity through a hands-on learning approach. It aims to equip undergraduate students with practical experience in blockchain and cybersecurity, addressing the sector's complexities and its growing significance. Our work is to develop new modules and lab experiments, fostering real-world skills in these rapidly evolving fields. This initiative highlights the critical role of hands-on learning in understanding blockchain's foundational concepts and applications, preparing students for future challenges in technology and cybersecurity sectors.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Striving for Symbiosis: Human-Machine Relations in the AI Era

Friban Almeida (USA)

0
In our ever-changing world of human-machine interactions, the idea of achieving harmony between humans and artificial intelligence (AI) systems goes beyond mere coexistence; it signifies the establishment of a dynamic and mutually beneficial relationship. Recent strides in AI technology have sparked a surge of interest in exploring how AI can seamlessly integrate into our lives. However, achieving this harmony involves more than just incorporating AI into our daily routines; it requires the cultivation of a symbiotic partnership where humans and AI systems work together synergistically. This partnership aims to harness the unique strengths of both humans and AI, with the ultimate goal of enhancing overall capabilities and well-being. It involves creating an environment where humans and AI systems complement each other's abilities, thereby maximizing efficiency and effectiveness in various domains. Whether it's in healthcare, education, or business, the pursuit of harmony between humans and AI entails fostering collaboration and mutual support. Moreover, achieving harmony with AI necessitates not only technical integration but also a cultural shift towards embracing AI as a valuable ally rather than a threat. It involves promoting a mindset of collaboration and openness to innovation, where humans and AI systems collaborate seamlessly to tackle complex challenges and drive progress. Ultimately, the journey towards human-AI harmony is about creating a future where technology serves as a tool for empowerment and enrichment, enhancing human capabilities and quality of life. It requires thoughtful consideration, continuous refinement, and a commitment to building bridges between humans and AI systems for the betterment of society as a whole.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Small Satellites as a Gateway to Hands-On Space Systems Education

Caleb J Humberd and Jin Kang (United States Naval Academy, USA); Christine Maceo (USNA, USA)

0
The rapid advancement and increasing accessibility of space technologies have opened new avenues for enriching aerospace engineering education in undergraduate institutions. Small satellites, such as CubeSat-class satellites, have emerged as an attractive budget- and schedule-effective platform for hands-on learning experiences by allowing students to engage in real-world engineering challenges in a full design-build-test-launch-operate cycle, within the time limitations of an undergraduate degree program. This paper presents an pedagogical approach that incorporates small satellites as an educational tool for aerospace engineering concepts in the context of undergraduate education. The implementation of small satellite technology in the Aerospace Engineering program at the United States Naval Academy (USNA) will serve as an example of project-based learning using CubeSats, and will include program recommendations as well as a discussion of the challenges and opportunities small satellites present in the undergraduate classroom. The challenges and limitations associated with the utilization of small satellites in a teaching environment such as time and financial constraints, regulatory considerations, and technical hurdles are analyzed, along with strategies to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, the importance of collaboration with industry partners and space agencies is emphasized to facilitate access to resources and ensure the success of such educational endeavors. The paper also discusses the overall impact of integrating CubeSats into an Aerospace Engineering curriculum on student learning outcomes and career prospects.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Technology for Secure File Storage Based on Hybrid Cryptography Methods: Short Overview

Gulnara Abitova (State University of New York at Binghamton, USA & Astana IT University, Kazakhstan); Vladimir Nikulin (Binghamton University (SUNY), USA)

0
This article explores the development of information technology for secure file storage based on hybrid cryptography methods. It highlights the importance of secure file storage in the digital age and introduces hybrid cryptography as a solution for enhanced data security. The purpose of the article is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the benefits and advancements in hybrid cryptography for secure file storage. The article discusses the differences between symmetric and asymmetric encryption algorithms and introduces hybrid cryptography as a combination of both. It delves into the advantages of hybrid cryptography, emphasizing its ability to provide robust security and efficient data protection. The use of hybrid cryptography in encryption at rest and encryption in transit is examined, highlighting its role in securing stored data and ensuring secure data transmission. Moreover, the article explores the authentication, integrity, and reliability features provided by hybrid cryptography. It discusses the importance of key management and its impact on secure file storage. The chapter on analyzing other articles on cryptography provides insights into recent developments and breakthroughs in the field, with relevant references and summaries of key findings.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Enter Zoom
Session Full-06

Full Paper Track 06 — Virtual

Conference
12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST

STEM Spirit: Learning via Student Ownership & Empowerment in a Rural School

Richard W. Morris and Jimmy Mccrae (Tivy High School, USA); David Unobe (Schreiner University, USA); Raleigh Priour, Daniel Berlanga, Gregory Carden-Madrid, Rachel Keller, Alexander Lape, Eric Olson, Braxton Pehl, Harper Mitchell, Julian Rios and Jonathan Stevenson (Tivy High School, USA); Joseph Borecky (Tivy HS, USA); Isabel Sanchez (Tivy High School, USA)

0
This paper describes an innovative approach to project-based learning (PBL) in STEM education grades 9-12 in a rural school of Central Texas. Rural schools face unique challenges in their efforts to deliver good STEM instruction, especially with regard to teacher recruitment and delivery of work-related instruction that aligns with the needs of their students and communities. The core of this approach is the Engineering Design Process (EDP), but the means by which the EDP is implemented here arose through students who insisted on hands-on learning and who took ownership of their classroom experience. The resulting approach is now being implemented and evaluated at Tivy High School in Kerrville, a rapidly growing town of 24,000 people in Central Texas. Stakeholders at the school agree about student autonomy. Students, teachers, and administrators are gradually seeing that these methods align with Federal and state standards. In this talk, first, the specific tools for delivering this STEM curriculum are explained in detail, i.e., (a) Engineering Design Process, (b) Project Method, (c) EDGE Model, (d) S.M.A.R.T. goal-setting, and (e) formal grading policies. Because engineering subjects at Tivy HS are taught as electives (non-core courses) the roles of instruction, hands-on modeling, technology, and workplace exposure are also discussed. Next, the rubrics by which student learning is assessed are presented, i.e., class participation, journal entries (a.k.a., engineering notebook), project planning (and execution), prototyping, and student safety. Finally, project descriptions are presented to explain how this instructional approach is being applied in the classroom. In closing, the authors discuss their plans for the evaluation and future development of the "Tivy model". They invite collaboration with like-minded schools and programs.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Core Competencies Required to Transfer and Apply Knowledge and Experience across Projects and Disciplines

Fatemeh Pariafsai (Bowling Green State University, USA); Manish Kumar Dixit (Texas A&M University, USA); Shirley Nelly Tandoh (Bowling Green State University, USA); Sadjad Pariafsai (Islamic Azad University, Iran); Stephen Mark Caffey (Texas A&M University, USA)

0
The construction industry, which employs 7% of the world's workforce and contributes 13% to the global Gross Domestic Product, plays a pivotal role in economies across the globe. In the United States, it has a significant impact on the lives of a substantial portion of the population. However, the industry faces challenges such as declining productivity, workplace safety, and work disputes, necessitating the involvement of construction project managers. To pinpoint training gaps and connect qualified construction project managers with pertinent projects, understanding the essential competencies for construction project managers. Through a previous study, we identified 21 skills imperative for construction project managers, encompassing their associated knowledge areas and personality characteristics. To assess the significance of these competencies, a survey was devised, comprising 672 ranking questions. An innovative design framework was proposed to streamline the extensive questionnaire, randomly and evenly presenting 21 ranking questions to each participant. Subsequently, data was gathered from 2,016 academics globally. This paper delineates the importance of each knowledge area and personality characteristic concerning the ability to transfer and apply knowledge and experience across projects and disciplines. The results can guide construction academia in directing their efforts towards pivotal competency development areas, designing scaffolding courses, and formulating curricula that align with the actual needs of the global workforce.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-07

Full Paper Track 07 — Virtual

Conference
12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST

Teaching Security in the Era of Generative AI: A Course Design of Security + ChatGPT

Yang Wang and Margaret McCoey (La Salle University, USA); Qian Hu (La Salle University & None, USA); Maryam Jalalitabar (California State University, Northridge, USA)

0
The 2023 CS curriculum by ACM, IEEE, and AAAI identifies security as an independent knowledge area that develops the "security mindset" so that students are ready for the "continual changes" in computing. Likewise, the curriculum emphasises the coverage of "uses", and "shortcomings/pitfalls" of practical AI-tools like ChatGPT. This paper presents our endeavors to approach those goals with the design of an Information Security course. Our course design bears the following distinct features: Certificate-readiness, where we align the knowledge areas with major security/ethical hacking certificates; Coverage of ChatGPT, where the uses of ChatGPT for assisting security tasks and security issues caused by ChatGPT usage are both addressed for the first time in the teaching; "Learn defending from attackers' perspective", where labs of both offensive and defensive natures are developed to equally sharpen ethical hacking and hardening skills, and to facilitate the discussion on legal/ethical implications; Current and Representative, where a just-enough set of representative and/or current security topics are selected in order and covered in respective modules in the most current form. In addition, we generalize our design principles and strategies, with the hope to shed lights on similar efforts in other institutions.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Teaching Programming Concepts with Visualization: a Systematic Overview and Lessons Learned

Maryam Jalalitabar (California State University, Northridge, USA); Yang Wang (La Salle University, USA); Qian Hu (La Salle University & None, USA)

0
There have been increasing efforts in recent years to apply visualization tools for teaching CS/IT courses. Particularly, the abstractness of programming concepts can be mitigated with visualization tools by providing a WYSIWYG ("what you see is what you get") experience. Visualization tools for programming can provide diverse coverage ranging from basic programming concepts such as variables to advanced concepts in data structures and algorithms. Given the varieties of the tools and the fast software updates, we are motivated to identify visualization tool(s) that are current, supportive (e.g., in both breadth and depth of coverage), and friendly (e.g., no learning curve) to facilitate the teaching of programming. Motivated by this, this paper provides a systematic overview of visualization tools according to four defined metrics. Moreover, we share our best-practices in adoption: a hybrid approach for selecting a combination of visualization tools in an introductory programming course and a data structures course. In addition, we discuss students' feedback, our strategies and lessons learned in adopting visualization for teaching programming.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

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Session Full-08

Full Paper Track 08 — Virtual

Conference
12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST

Ideation and Implementation of a Sustainable and Equitable Math Peer Learning School District Mentorship Program

Harini Thiagarajan (North Creek High School, USA)

0
Participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), particularly math and science, extracurricular and enrichment programs influence K-12 students' primary motivation towards being inspired to pursue higher STEM education and enhancing their problem-solving skills. A STEM achievement gap is suggested to be present, comparing students who actively participate in STEM-related extracurricular activities to those who do not. Due to the unforeseen circumstances posed by the pandemic, staff shortages, and the demanding requirements of sustaining such STEM programs and clubs, many school districts had to shift focus away from additional enrichment programs to standardized school-related activities only. To combat the possibility of temporarily closing math clubs, especially when STEM enrichment impact is more significant on youth, I founded North Creek High School's Mu Alpha Theta - MAθ (high school Math Honor Society) Chapter to foster a school district-wide partnership between the high school (grades 9-12) and a middle school (grades 6-8) with little advisor involvement. This community service project model focuses on peer mentoring by coaching math and problem-solving strategies for middle school students using equitable resources. This paper outlines the learnings and successes of the cyclical and self-feeding peer-model mentoring structure of the mentorship program implemented between the school district's elementary, middle, and high schools. As a sustainable and inspiring model, this student-led initiative encourages more youth to appreciate math and the youth to give back to their educational communities and stay vested in community development as volunteers and mentors.
Speaker
Speaker biography is not available.

Exploring EFL Learners' Pausing and Revision Behaviors in a Timed Argumentative Writing Task

Qin Luo (Beijing Institute of Technology, China); Qizhi Xu (University of Science and Technology of China, China)

0
Writing is a complex activity requiring coordinating various cognitive processes. Since writing is an essential skill for language learners, understanding their writing process and identifying their difficulties in writing is of great pedagogic significance. Due to the limited cognitive capacity, writers have to pause when composing to reallocate their attention to some necessary processes. They also make revisions to correct mistakes and to improve the text quality. Pausing and revision provide insights into the cognitive processes in writing. This paper investigates the pausing and revision behaviors of 123 Chinese EFL learners in a timed argumentative writing task by using keystroke logging technology, analyzing the pausing and revision features between high-scoring and low-scoring groups and between different gender groups to find the possible relationships among various factors. This research partially confirms the previous conclusions that (1) writers tend to pause longer between sentences than between words; (2) proficient writers tend to have more pauses and revisions between sentences whereas less-proficient writers tend to pause more and revise more between and within words; (3) proficient writers have a longer jump distance of the cursor than less-proficient writers; (4) pauses and revisions at higher-level textual units correlate positively with text quality while those at lower-level correlate negatively with text quality. This paper also contributes to the research on gender differences in the writing process, finding that female writers revise more, especially at the sentence level, and get higher scores than male writers.
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Session Full-09

Full Paper Track 09 — Virtual

Conference
12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 12:30 PM — 1:00 PM EST

Assessment of Medical Record Management in Hospital: A Comprehensive Study on Awareness, Challenges and Systems

Milind Chunkhare (University of Symbiosis, India); Aarushi Pandey (SIHS, India)

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Background: Previous research paper suggest that effective hospital medical record management requires the health professional to be efficient & proficient in handling clinical records. But there is paucity of data evaluating this aspect amongst allied health professionals. This paper delves into analyzing the exposure and proficiency of allied healthcare professionals in managing hospital records in a clinical setting. Method: A structured questionnaire consisting of three major sections was used in this study. Primary section, interviewees' knowledge of how healthcare records are managed, with the help of tools and the challenges faced, was gauged. The secondary portion focused on impact of Electronic Medical Record (EMR) on overall patient care and workflow efficiency. The final component of the research consisted of exploring issues in compliance with Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. Findings: 48.7% of the participants are unaware about the medical record management software utilized in Symbiosis University Hospital & Research Centre (SUHRC). Only about 26.5% of the research population feel that the current recording system is efficient & impacting their work flow and patient management. 71.2% of participants were well aware of the challenges in handling and accessing medical records and 75% of respondents had reported being aware of the protocols and practices used for health data security and confidentiality. 63.9% of the sample population believe the EMR system is updated on a regular basis. Interpretation: It can be hypothesized that this number indicates there are several improvements that can be made in current systems. Conclusion: These findings help medical stakeholders such as administrators and policymakers receive a more excellent outline of where the challenges in managing records lie, was achieved. Therefore, healthcare compliance practices help enhance systems that manage medical records, eventually improving patient data security and making a mark in the quality of patient care.
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Pandemic-Induced Challenges and Creative Instructor Solutions to Convert University Engineering Laboratory Courses to Online Format

Hen-Geul Yeh, Art Densmore and Walter Martinez (California State University Long Beach, USA)

1
In this paper we describe how the electrical engineering (EE) laboratory courses at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) have been adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic. EE laboratory courses have been impacted to a significant degree by the pandemic; although, educational improvements have also been brought on in response. We answer questions: How can engineering laboratory courses be adapted to the quarantine restrictions brought on by the pandemic in a manner that preserves the quality of instruction for the students while keeping them engaged? The EE department opted to invest in the purchase of and then to loan to the laboratory students, small remote laboratory kits that they could use at home. The kits are for lab projects involving building and programming Arduino based robot kits and making and testing digital networking and analog circuits using the National Instruments MyDAQ. Our university has striven to provide to the students the most professional education that can be offered to help them pursue a successful career, and the response by the student body was favorable to the changes that we made to the laboratory courses to overcome the pandemic. Our survey indicates that the laboratory changes were appreciated by students during the pandemics. This model can be applied to STEM courses and other design disciplines as well.
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Session Full-11

Full Paper Track 11 — Virtual

Conference
1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST

Minimizing In-Vitro Fertilization Failures by Utilizing Artificial Intelligence to Evaluate the Health of Human Embryos

Ashrita Gandhari (USA)

1
The quality of the transferred embryo is the crucial factor that impacts the success of the in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment cycle. Embryologists and other related experts in the field are responsible for deciding which embryo should be chosen to continue in the IVF process. These clinicians are faced with a life-changing task that could potentially lead to failure of conception, and they should ensure their final diagnoses are accurate. Alternative tools used to make this paramount decision are limited, subjective, time-consuming, and extremely expensive. However, an embryologist's skills, coupled with the precision and accuracy of an automated evaluation system, could improve IVF success rates by ensuring consistent results. Employing modern technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), is the deciding factor between providing accurate or inaccurate results. This project, LetoHealth, utilizes prevalent convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures to distinguish embryo health and quality at 113 hours post insemination (hpi) on day 5 of culturation based on its morphology. In this study, I assessed ResNET-50, Xception, and custom-built multi-layered CNN architectures; Xception performed the best with a validation accuracy of 0.98, precision of 0.98, and a loss of 0.05 among these. In addition, LetoHealth includes a web-based evaluation tool built using the best-performed Xception model hosted on the cloud that embryologists and clinicians can access, producing instant results of embryo health.
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Introducing Data Visualization to High School Students: Integrating Tableau into the Curriculum

Syed Yaseen Quadri Ameen, Gahangir Hossain and Shafi Parvez Mohammed (University of North Texas, USA)

0
In today's data-driven world, proficiency in data visualization is essential. With advancements in computing and technology, vast amounts of data are generated, making it imperative for students to learn early-stage computer programming for processing information. Supported by organizations like ACM and NIST, students are encouraged to engage in hands-on learning experiences. Data visualization, a cornerstone of data science, holds significant importance at the school level. This paper advocates for the integration of Tableau, a robust data visualization tool, into high school education to enhance students' analytical and visual comprehension skills. By incorporating Tableau into the computing curriculum, students gain valuable knowledge in exploratory data analytics (EDA), enabling them to represent data effectively in various computing and machine learning stages, including data filtering, pattern identification, clustering, and classification. The paper examines the importance of data visualization, the advantages of using Tableau as a teaching tool, strategies for curriculum integration, assessment of learning outcomes, challenges, and recommendations for educators.
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Session Full-12

Full Paper Track 12 — Virtual

Conference
1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST

Simplifying Bell's Inequality: A Pedagogical Approach to Teaching Quantum Mechanics to High School Students

Leo Zhiyuan Pan (Shanghai Amercian School Pudong, China)

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This paper presents an innovative pedagogical approach to teaching the concept of Bell's inequality and its implications, tailored specifically for k-12 high school students. Recognizing the challenge of the complex mathematical calculations usually involved in quantum mechanics at higher education levels, we present a simplified yet rigorous method that avoids higher-level mathematics and explains Bell's inequality. The approach uses high school-level mathematics while maintaining precision, avoiding advanced mathematics by explaining Bell's inequality with basic algebra and probability theory. Our approach emphasizes more on the conceptual understanding of the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics rather than complex computations. In this study, we discuss the significance and implications of integrating Quantum Mechanics into the high school curricula, and analyze the merits and limitations of our pedagogical approach. The effectiveness of the approach is evaluated through a series of classroom trials, and feedback from both students and educators is used to refine the approach.
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Integrating Differential Privacy in Modern Database Curriculum

Ankur Chattopadhyay and Jeff Miller (Northern Kentucky University, USA)

0
College students in computer science and information technology majors have traditionally been required to take database design and processing classes, as well as data analytics classes in both business and technology settings-- as part of the required curriculum. As outlined conceptually by The Joint ACM/AIS IS2020 task force, there is and will continue to be a great demand for students who have the skills to query for data, both in analytical tasks, as well as programming, statistics, administrative and managerial tasks. The information technology sector, focusing on the workplace and the application of information technology skills in business, would greatly benefit from new modern privacy concepts that have evolved recently as a result of the trends in big data, social media, IoT and business analytics. Cloud database, as well as traditional storage systems for data are subject to General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) which requires entities such as businesses, companies, and organizations of all types who store data to take reasonable measures to protect a subject's data and privacy against data loss or exposure. This paper explores the research available in the subject of data privacy as applicable to database programming curriculum in information technology. It explores the ever-important use of structured query language in relation to data privacy. In addition, this paper outlines the concepts and definitions of differential privacy, used to obfuscate sensitive data collected and stored in modern relational database schemes. It seeks to provide knowledge for integrating the concept of differential privacy and closely related PETs into the traditional business model-based relational database management system class at the undergraduate level.
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Session Full-13

Full Paper Track 13 — Virtual

Conference
1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST

Application of DIKWP Model to Optimize the Allocation of Postgraduate Education Funds

Xinya You (Wuhan University of Technology, China)

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Efficient allocation of funds is crucial for enhancing the quality of postgraduate education. The DIKWP model, integrating Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom, and Practice, offers a comprehensive framework for decision-making in fund allocation. Through data collection, information processing, knowledge synthesis, and the application of wisdom, this model aids in making informed decisions regarding fund distribution.The study discusses the allocation of funds across key areas such as faculty development, research support, student scholarships, and infrastructure enhancement. By utilizing the DIKWP model, universities and educational institutions can optimize the allocation of funds to maximize the impact on postgraduate education quality.This research contributes to the advancement of fund allocation strategies in the context of postgraduate education, fostering a more efficient and transparent system. It offers a holistic approach to decision-making, ensuring that available resources are used effectively to support the development of academic faculty, encourage research excellence, provide financial aid to students, and improve infrastructure.
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Enhancing Postgraduate Education Assessment with BP Neural Networks

Xinya You (Wuhan University of Technology, China)

0
Postgraduate education plays a vital role in nurturing skilled professionals and advancing knowledge. Ensuring the quality and effectiveness of postgraduate education is of paramount importance. This study presents a novel approach to postgraduate education evaluation utilizing the Backpropagation (BP) neural network model. The research involves data collection, preprocessing, and the development of a BP neural network-based evaluation model. The model is trained and validated using relevant data to assess the quality and effectiveness of postgraduate programs.The results of the study demonstrate the potential of the BP neural network in accurately and efficiently evaluating postgraduate education. This research contributes to the enhancement of postgraduate education by providing a data-driven and technologically advanced approach to evaluation. It offers valuable guidance to educational institutions and policymakers seeking to improve the quality of postgraduate programs and ensure the competence of graduates in the ever-evolving global knowledge economy.Postgraduate education plays a pivotal role in shaping future leaders, researchers, and professionals. It is imperative to assess the quality and effectiveness of postgraduate programs to ensure they meet the ever-evolving demands of academia and industry. Traditional assessment methods, while valuable, may have limitations in capturing the multifaceted dimensions of postgraduate education, such as teaching quality, research outcomes, and student performance. This necessitates the exploration of innovative assessment approaches that can provide more comprehensive and insightful evaluations.
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Session Full-14

Full Paper Track 14 — Virtual

Conference
1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST

Enhancing Students PBL Engagement Based on Interactive Online Simulation: Climate Data Analysis and Visualization

Yi Li (The High School Affiliated to Renmin University of China, China)

0
This article proposed a project-based learning (PBL) method based on an interactive simulation platform in view of the pain points encountered by students in the PBL process of mathematics, such as the low engagement due to the integration of problems, difficulty in obtaining data, and lack of programming skills. We designed a 5-week short course based on MATLAB-Simulink simulation platform and took climate data analysis and visualization as a case study. This topic is divided into four modules: trends of global temperature and greenhouse gases emission, Arctic Sea ice quantization, multispectral imaging based on Landsat 8 satellite and multispectral indices for reservoir area and vegetation. Each module provided a set of hands-on programming practices through activities and tasks. This platform offered a friendly programming environment to create interactive simulations, allowing students to solve the real-world problem in a hands-on way. Pre- and post-tests show that this interactive simulation platform-based course effectively enhancing students' engagement, improving the learning experience through technology and promoting a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and their real-world applications.
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Assessment of Regulatory Frameworks Governing Consumer-Focused Medical AI Devices: A Case Study Analysis of the Apple Watch's Role in Healthcare Law and Policy

Cankai Zhang (University of California San Diego, USA)

0
In the rapidly evolving domain of modern healthcare, the advent of the Apple Watch and Artificial Intelligence (AI) marks a pivotal shift towards enhanced personal health management and preventive care. The Apple Watch has become an indispensable tool, offering a wide array of health-focused features. Its capabilities extend from continuous heart rate monitoring to the innovative Electrocardiogram (ECG) functionality, adept at identifying signs of atrial fibrillation. The fall detection system and blood oxygen monitoring further exemplify its preventive care approach. Additionally, features like sleep and menstrual cycle tracking, alongside fitness and noise level monitoring, contribute to a comprehensive health overview. Importantly, the integration of ResearchKit and HealthKit facilitates large-scale health data collection and analysis, significantly aiding clinical research. AI, playing a complementary role, leverages vast data sets to offer predictive insights, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and personalize care plans. Its algorithms are continually refined, leading to advancements in disease detection, treatment options, and patient outcomes. Together, the Apple Watch and AI not only symbolize the technological transformation in healthcare but also underscore the shift towards more proactive, personalized, and data-driven health management strategies.
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Session Full-15

Full Paper Track 15 — Virtual

Conference
1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST
Local
Mar 9 Sat, 1:00 PM — 1:30 PM EST

Project Pill Tracker: An Advanced and Automated Pill Tracking & Dispenser

Archishma Marrapu ( & STEMifyGirls, USA)

0
Background: Prescription drugs are used on a daily basis by over one hundred thirty one million people in the United States of America, 80% of which have claimed to skip a dose at some point in their lives. Importance: Medication adherence can prevent intensified medical conditions and over 125,000 deaths per year. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to create an automated mediation tracker and dispenser to reduce the human errors that can impact someone's life in a negative manner. Methods: The current prototype utilizes microelectronic technology, such as the Arduino Board and servo motors, and uses Android Studios to provide the user interface. Results: This prototype has a high accuracy rate for the pill tracking component and for the pill dispensing component. Conclusion: Although there are products in the current market that target this problem in our society, they lack the accuracy, fast speed, and convenience of this product. This product allows the user to track the pills they are consuming, store their pills, receive reminders about pills when the user must take them, notify them about skipped doses, upcoming refills, or upcoming appointments, dispense the right number of pills at the right time, and even connect to another account to either track them as a caregiver or be tracked as a care recipient.
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