Active Learning: Improving Student Learning using Portable Computer-Based-Test-Equipment.

This paper presents an active learning experience using a set of experiments for electrical and computer engineering technology students covering courses from the lower to the upper level division in the areas of electrical circuits and digital electronics. The experiments and associated tutorials are designed to help students with different backgrounds and skills to become proficient using laboratory equipment and to achieve a higher level of learning. By giving students more opportunities to improve their employability skills, they will be better prepared to enter the competitive work force and to compete with graduates from other universities. The experiments are developed around portable computer-based-test-equipment, the Analog Discovery platforms. The platforms enable students to quickly and easily build and test real-world functional circuits anytime, using their own computers and associated free computer-based-tools. Results, including assessment data, lessons learned and challenges, conclude the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]