An evaluation of digital and artificial intelligent tools in an electronic and computer engineering curriculum at a university of technology in South Africa

Abstract

Digital tools have become integral to higher education, offering a wide array of opportunities for improving the learning experience. This study explores the adoption and impact of digital tools in engineering education. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing quantitative data and qualitative data collection. Participants included both staff and students in a comprehensive analysis.

The integration of technology in higher education has witnessed significant growth, encompassing educational software, learning management systems (LMS), and online platforms. In engineering education, tools like Moodle, MATLAB, Turnitin, Simulink, and MS Teams have gained prominence (Joksimović & Milosavljević, 2016). However, their effectiveness in achieving educational goals remains to be fully evaluated.

One key advantage of digital tools is personalized learning. Advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence (AI), enable adaptive learning software like ChatGPT to tailor lesson plans based on individual needs.

Furthermore, digital tools expand students' access to resources, such as online lectures, readings, and simulations, supplementing traditional teaching methods. They also facilitate collaborative learning and group projects through platforms like Moodle and Blackboard, enabling effective communication, document sharing, and teamwork.

The findings of this study shed light on the current landscape of digital tools in engineering education. A SWOT analysis is applied to inform future strategies. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of these tools and their potential to transform engineering education.

This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on optimizing digital tools for personalized learning and collaborative education in engineering programs. It underscores the importance of evaluating their impact and tailoring their use to enhance the overall educational experience.