The aptness of Tangible User Interfaces for explaining abstract computer network principles

Tangible Lighting Proxies: Brokering the Transition from Classroom to Stage

“…It is therefore clear how we might use tangibles to represent specific abstract concepts -such as how lighting control protocols operate [8], or the behavior of light [44]. In these contexts it is clear that to support the learning of underlying concepts, tangible systems need to allow for, or prompt, reflection on these concepts [6].…”

TangiNet: A Tangible User Interface System for Teaching the Properties of Network Cables

“…Even though the authors believed that the proposed solution makes the exercise of network design more accessible to students having limited network design skills, no evaluation was conducted to evaluate this statement. Similarly, another study proposed a TUI system for teaching network topologies and protocols [17]. Although findings of the study were insightful where the TUI system was found to improve learning by approximately 25% as compared to traditional techniques, the focus of the work was not on teaching properties of networking cables.…”

Learning UI Functional Design Principles Through Simulation With Feedback

“…Some tools have been developed to offer "part-task practice," including worked examples and games. Simulation has the advantage of being capable of addressing whole complex tasks and has been used in multiple domains as a teaching tool, including areas of knowledge like mathematics [3], [4], physics [5], and engineering [6]- [8]. During the development of learning tasks, unlike real-life tasks, simulation gives teachers more control over the complexity of the tasks, the amount of student support provided, and mitigation of the risks associated with failed task execution.…”