Experiential learning of electronics subject matter in middle school robotics courses

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the experiential learning of electronics subject matter is effective in the middle school open learning of robotics. Electronics is often ignored in robotics courses. Since robotics courses are typically comprised of computer-related subjects, and mechanical and electrical engineering, these three areas should be emphasized equally. Many studies reveal impressive learning of computer science and mechanical engineering, but clear evidence of the effectiveness of electronics learning in the higher order thinking skills of middle school students is still lacking. We designed three different robotics courses with electronics subject matter introduced through experiential learning. A parallel group design was used, where three different open learning courses were implemented for middle school students. Based on results of the first and second implementations, we improved students’ learning of relevant content for each successive step of the experiment. In total, 381 middle school students participated in all experiments and were surveyed using pre- and post-tests. The collected data were analyzed using a quantitative research methodology. The findings revealed that the teaching approach was effective. During the learning process, student interest in robotics increased, and overall achievement improved with a medium effect size (η² = 0.13). The best results for the learning of electronics subject matter were found in the learning process (η² = 0.44), where experimental sharing of electronics parts was the most evident approach used by the students. Examination of learning material structure in light of the shared electronics subject matter is analyzed and discussed and possible directions for future research are presented.     

Meine Antwort an Herrn Prof. Dr. Karel Engliš

Ohne Zusammenfassung     

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A transaction cost approach to analysing industrial districts

This article determines whether transaction cost theory can be used as a framework for analysing industrial district relationships, using the Gnosjö/Anderstorp industrial district in Sweden as a case example. Interviews with six firm owner/managers, representatives from the trade union and the local industrial development centre were conducted. Data was analysed using pattern matching in accordance to the theoretical framework. The findings indicate that interfirm relationships in the industrial district are motivated by the desire to reduce transaction costs. The article offers an alternative perspective in analysing industrial districts as current studies use network theory in explaining the industrial district phenomena.     

Human capital and SME internationalization: a structural equation modeling study

This study uses a structural equation modeling technique to predict the internationalization of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) from the entrepreneur's human capital (dimensions: international business skills, international orientation, environmental perception, and management know‐how). While international orientation and environmental risk perception predicted internationalization, international business skills and management know‐how did not. The implications of these findings for research and practice are discussed. Copyright © 2007 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

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