Showing posts with label Gary hill. Show all posts

Friday, 1 January 2016

Some recent publications - Computing - University of Northampton

A selection of publications from 2015

Ajah, S., Al-Sherbaz, A., Turner, S. J. and Picton, P. (2015) Machine–to–machine communications energy efficiencies: the implications of different M2M communications specifications. International Journal of Wireless and Mobile Computing (IJWMC).8(1), pp. 15-26. 1741-1084.
Ajit, S. (2015) Student perceptions of different assessment modes in computer programming courses. Other presented to:Assessment in HE Conference, Birmingham, UK, 24-25 June 2015.
Ajit, S., Holmes, C., Johnson, J., Kolovos, D. S. and Paige, R. F. (2015) Model-based tool support for Tactical Data Links: an experience report from the defence domain. Software & Systems Modeling. 1619-1366. (In Press)
Ajit, S., Olajubu, O., Thomson, S. and Edwards, M. (2015) Model transformation of high-level requirements in a domain specific language into a formal specification language. Paper presented to: 15th International Workshop on Automated Verification of Critical Systems (AVOCS 2015), Edinburgh, 01-04 September 2015.
Al-Khalil, A. B., Turner, S. J. and Al-Sherbaz, A. (2015) A predefined channel coefficients library for vehicle-to-vehicle communications. In: Rak, J., Mas Machuca, C., Oki, E., Papadimitriou, D., Vinel, A. and Walkowiak, K. (eds.) Proceedings of 2015 7th International Workshop on Reliable Networks Design and Modeling (RNDM). Munich, Germany: IEEE. 9781467380508. pp. 335-340.
Al-Khalil, A. B., Turner, S. J. and Al-Sherbaz, A. (2015) Utilising SCM – MIMO channel model based on V-BLAST channel coding in V2V communication. In: Kassab, M., Berbineau, M., Vinel, A., Jonsson, M., Garcia, F. and Soler, J. (eds.) Communication Technologies for Vehicles: 8th International Workshop, Nets4Cars/Nets4Trains/Nets4Aircraft 2015, Sousse, Tunisia, May 6-8, 2015. Proceedings. Sousse, Tunisia: Springer International Publishing. 9783319177649. pp. 3-11.
Al-Sadi, A., Al-Sherbaz, A., Xue, J. and Turner, S. J. (2015) The management of the future internet. Workshop presented to: 8th Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) Postgraduate Research Conference 2015: Innovation, Manchester Metropolitan University, 05 November 2015.
Baalsrud-Hauge, J. M., Stanescu, I. A., Arnab, S., Ger, P. M., Lim, T., Serrano-Laguna, A., Lameras, P., Hendrix, M., Kiili, K.,Ninaus, M., de Freitas, S., Mazzetti, A., Dahlbom, A. and Degano, C. (2015) Learning through analytics architecture to scaffold learning experience through technology-based methods. International Journal of Serious Games. 2(1), pp. 29-44. 2384-8766.
Dravid, R., Bates, J. and Sinclair, J. M. (2015) Capturing student voice: developing a peer-to-peer forum for student engagement on transnational programmes. Paper presented to: 5th Quacquarelli Symonds Middle East and North Africa Professional Leaders in Education (QS-MAPLE) Conference and Exhibition, Doha, Qatar, 05-07 May 2015.
Olajubu, O., Ajit, S., Johnson, M., Turner, S. J., Thomson, S. and Edwards, M. (2015) Automated test case generation from domain specific models of high-level requirements. In: Proceedings of the 2015 Conference on Research in Adaptive and Convergent Systems. New York, NY, USA: ACM. 9781450337380. pp. 505-508.
Sadkhan, S., Al-Sherbaz, A. and Mohammed, R. (2015) Chaos based cryptography for voice encryption in wireless communication. In: International Conference on Electrical, Communication, Computer, Power, and Control Engineering (ICECCPCE). Iraq: IEEE. pp. 191-197.
Sidoumou, M. R., Turner, S. J., Picton, P., Bechkoum, K. and Benatchba, K. (2015) Multitasking in Emotion Modelling Attention Control. In: Proceedings of 6th International Conference on Affective Computing and Intelligent Interaction (ACII). Xi'an, china: IEEE. 978-1-4799-9953-8/15.
Turner, S. J. (2015) Enhancing computing student employability skills through partnership working in STEM outreach. Paper presented to: 11th China - Europe International Symposium on Software Engineering Education (CEISEE 2015), Westsächsische Hochschule Zwickau (WHZ), Germany, 29-30 April 2015.

If you'd like to find out more about Computing at the University of Northampton go to: www.computing.northampton.ac.uk. All views and opinions are the author's and do not necessarily reflected those of any organisation they are associated with

Saturday, 18 May 2013

ELECTRONIC ONLINE MARKING OF SOFTWARE ASSIGNMENTS (EOMOSA)

Recently presented paper in Milan at 9th China-Europe International Symposium on Software Engineering Education.

Electronic Online Marking Of Software Assignments (EOMOSA)

Gary Hill and Scott Turner

Abstract

With the advent of Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) and online electronic submission of assignments, computing lecturers are increasingly assessing code online. There are various tools for aiding electronic marking, grading and plagiarism detection. However, there appears to be limited shared advice to computer science tutors (and students) on the effective use of these tools.

This paper aims to stimulate peer-discussion amongst tutors involved in the assessing (marking and grading) of software code. Many United Kingdom (UK) Higher Education Institutions (HEI) are using electronic marking. This paper discusses the authors’ experience and proposes suggestions for appropriate and effective solutions to the electronic assessment of software code. This will be based on the authors’ experience of electronically assessing code over three academic years and the current advice given to their students.

KEY WORDS

Software engineering, online marking, online grading, online assessment, turnitin, computer code.

Sunday, 10 March 2013

Gary Hill: solving problems

Referencing within Code in Software Engineering Education!

Computer Education 05/2012; 10(166):1.

ABSTRACT Traditionally computer sciences courses will assess software code. It is common and accepted good practice (as in written reports) to reference other sources of appropriate material. However there appears to be no explicit method, recommendation or advice available to computer science tutors and students on a referencing approach!

This paper aims to stimulate discussion from peers involved in software engineering education. By discussing the apparent lack of ‘referencing within code’ advice to students and proposing suggestions for appropriate solutions. This will be based on the authors’ experience of assessing code and the current advice given to their students.

Is it Visual? The importance of a Problem Solving Module within a Computing course

Computer Education 05/2012; 10(166):5.

ABSTRACT This paper looks at student’s view of the usefulness of a problem solving and programming module in the first year of a 3-year undergraduate program. The School of Science and Technology, University of Northampton, UK has been investigating, over the last seven years the teaching of problem solving. Including looking at whether a more visual approach has any benefits (the visual programming includes both 2-d and graphical user interfaces). Whilst the authors have discussed the subject problem solving and programming in the past this paper considers the students perspective from research collected/collated by a student researcher under a new initiative within the University.

All students interviewed either had completed the module within the two years of the survey or were completing the problem-solving module in their first year.

Robots within the Teaching of Problem-Solving

ITALICS 06/2008; 7(1):108.

ABSTRACT This paper considers the experiences of teaching on a module where problem-solving is taught first, then programming. The main tools for the problem-solving part, alongside two problem-solving approaches, are tasks using Mindstorm (LEGO, Denmark) robot kits. This is being done as a foundation step before the syntax of a language (Java) is taught to enable a Graphical User Interface (GUI) emulation of a previous robot problem.
Results of student evaluation and feedback will be presented and the use of twosimulators will be considered.

See more: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226670964_Robots_within_the_Teaching_of_Problem-Solving/file/9fcfd50af6c1001b55.pdf

A virtual environment training system for haptic laparoscopic surgery

16th International Conference on Automation and Computing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, 11 September 2010.

Source: OAI

ABSTRACT Most of the existing laparoscopic simulations which use simple objects are only for the purpose of the training of laparoscopic surgical skills. We have designed and developed an early prototype of a laparoscopic simulation system in which almost all of the soft tissue organs are modeled as deformable models which can be manipulated using a laparoscopic instrument with haptic feedback. Physics-based modeling is applied to realize collision detection, force rendering and elasticity deformation. A new mechanism to analyze and evaluate the injuries to the soft issues is introduced. Preliminary experimental results show that the simulator can meet the requirement of 1 kHz haptic loop update rate under complex virtual scene

Green computer science courses. No more labs full of computers, we?re going mobile!

THE PROCEEDINGS OF 7TH CHINA - EUROPE INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM ON SOFTWARE INDUSTRY- ORIENTED EDUCATION held at the University of Northampton, May 2011

ABSTRACT Traditionally computer sciences courses have been taught using laboratories full of expensive desktop computers. This approach may have been valid in the 80, 90?s and even the early part of this decade. This paper suggests that buying; maintaining and replacing laboratories full of computers are no longer a requirement. This paper raises the issues associated with such a ?bold? step, but offers potential solutions that, in some cases, may make Computer Science courses at such ?brave? institutions more appealing

Full Text: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226659197_Green_computer_science_courses._No_more_labs_full_of_computers_were_going_mobile!/file/79e41510e60e16971f.pdf

Problems first

In book: Software Industry-Oriented Education Practices and Curriculum Development: Experiences and Lessons, Publisher: IGI Global, Editors: M. Hussey and B. Wu and X. Xiaofei

ABSTRACT This chapter considers the need to focus initial programming education on problem-solving, in advance of programming syntax and software design methodology. The main vehicle for this approach is simple Lego based robots programmed in Java, followed by the programming of a graphical representation/simulation to develop programming skills. Problem solving is not trivial (Beaumont & Fox, 2003) and is an important skill, central to computing and engineering. An approach will be considered, illustrated with a series of problem-solving tasks that increase in complexity at each stage and give the students practice in attempting problem-solving approaches, as well as assisting them to learn from their mistakes. Some of the problems include ambiguities or are purposely ill-defined, to enable the student to resolve these as part of the process. The benefits to students will be discussed including students? statements that this approach, using robots, provides a method to visually and physically see the outcome of a problem. In addition, students report that the method improves their satisfaction with the course. The importance of linking the problem-solving robot activity and the programming assignment, whilst maintaining the visual nature of the problem, will be discussed, together with the comparison of this work with similar work reported by other authors relating to teaching programming using robots (Williams, 2003)

Sample text: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226659396_Problems_first/file/9fcfd4fdf34473fa2f.pdf

Robots in problem-solving and programming

ABSTRACT This paper looks at the experience of teaching on a module where problem-solving is taught first, then programming. The main tools for the problem-solving part, alongside two problem-solving approaches, are tasks based on using Mindstorm (LEGO, Denmark) robot kits. This is being done as a foundation step before the syntax of a language (Java) is taught. Results of student evaluation will be presented.

Full text: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226659414_Robots_in_problem-solving_and_programming/file/d912f50da1e318c214.pdf

Motivational differences in learning internet programming between arts and computing students

ABSTRACT This poster discusses the observations on learning differences of teaching internet programming to Arts and Computing students on a common undergraduate programming module

Full text: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/31872049_Motivational_differences_in_learning_internet_programming_between_arts_and_computing_students/file/d912f511b4f6282379.pdf

Annual Report: STRiPe

Science and Technology Research in Pedagogy (STRiPe)

Annual Report 2012

Name of the Group: Science and Technology Research in Pedagogy (STRiPe)
Though the group is based in the Department of Computing and Immersive Technologies but membership from across the School of Science and Technology, University of Northampton.

Head of the Group: Dr Scott Turner.

Contributors to Group

Dr Scott Turner

Gary Hill

Dr Jonathan Adams

Dr Ali Al-Sherbaz

Prof. Phil Picton

Daniel Bailey

Track Record of Achievement

A. Projects
£6600 for Public Engagement Enhancement – HE STEM programme

£19500 for Enhancing the Sustainability of the East Midlands Knowledge Network - JISC

B. Research outputs

1. Maunder, R., Turner, S., Sneddon, S. and Crouch, A. (2012) Editorial. Enhancing the Learner Experience in Higher Education. 4(1), pp. 1-2. 2041-3122.

2. Kariyawasam K., A., Turner S., Hill G. (2012) "Is it Visual? The importance of a Problem Solving Module within a Computing course", Computer Education, Volume 10, Issue 166, May 2012, pp. 5-7, ISSN: 1672-5913.

3. Hill G., Turner S. (2012) "Referencing within Code in Software Engineering Education!", Computer Education, Volume 10, Issue 166, May 2012, pp. 1-4, ISSN: 1672-5913.Conference

4. Turner, S. and Al-Sherbaz, A. (2012) "What's the problem with problem-solving?" Seminar Presentation presented to: Insights into the future of learning and teaching at Northampton, University of Northampton, 3rd December 2012

5. Bailey D and Adams J (2012) "NORTHANTS ENGINEERING TRAINING PARTNERSHIP (NETP), A MODEL FOR SUSTAINABLE, INDUSTRY – UNIVERSITY ENGAGEMENT" International Conference on Engineering Education 2012 Turku Finland July 30 – August 3, 2012.

6. Picton P (2012) "TEACHING ULTRASONICS USING SPREADSHEETS" International Conference on Engineering Education 2012 Turku Finland July 30 – August 3, 2012
7. Turner, S (2012) Case Studies in Web Sustainability Ariadne No 70 ISSN: 1361-3200

C. PhD Examining
Scott Turner
September 2012 London Metropolitan University

D. Reports

Details of the case study can be found at: http://projects.hestem-sw.org.uk/upload/Junkbot_june_northampton.pdf
Details of an in-school session plan can be found at: http://projects.hestem-sw.org.uk/upload/Planning_Process_junkbots_KS3_4_longer.docx
Details of an STEM club session plan can be found at: http://projects.hestem-sw.org.uk/upload/Planning_Process_junkbots_primary_short8.docx
Details of the Web Sustainability project can be found at: "Enhancing the Sustainability of the East Midlands Knowledge Network: final Report " [online] URL: http://ie-repository.jisc.ac.uk/563/2/EMKN_final_report_output4337.doc .

E. Editorships and Members of Editorial Boards

Scott Turner

Saturday, 16 February 2013

Blast from the Past: Arts vs Computing

Details of a short paper on the motivational differences in learning internet programming between arts and computing students.

Minai, A, Turner S, and Hill. G (2008) "Motivational Differences in Learning Internet Programming Between Arts and Computing Students" 9th Higher Education Academy-ICS Annual Conference, Liverpool Hope University, 26th August - 28th August 2008. pp. 197 ISBN 978-0-9559676-0-3.

Abstract

This poster discusses the observations on learning differences of teaching internet programming to Arts and Computing students on a common undergraduate programming module

Full details of the paper can be found at:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/31872049_Motivational_differences_in_learning_internet_programming_between_arts_and_computing_students?ev=prf_pub

BSc and HND Computing Provision (click on the links below for more details of the courses)

Sunday, 3 February 2013

CEISE2011 paper: Green Computer Science Courses! We’re going mobile!

An abstract from the 7th China – Europe International Symposium on Software Industry Orientated Education to be held 23-24th May 2011 at School of Science and Technology, University of Northampton, UK. For more details can be found at this link.

Green Computer Science Courses! We’re going mobile!

Gary Hill, Espen Svennevik, Scott Turner
Division of Computing and Immersive Technologies, University of Northampton, UK

Abstract

Traditionally computer sciences courses have been taught using laboratories full of expensive desktop computers. This approach may have been valid in the 80, 90’s and even the early part of this decade. This paper suggests that buying; maintaining and replacing laboratories full of computers are no longer a requirement. This paper raises the issues associated with such a ‘bold’ step, but offers potential solutions that, in some cases, may make Computer Science courses at such ‘brave’ institutions more appealing.

Proceedings can be found at: http://www.web-sustainablity.net/conference/GreenConferenceBook.pdf

Friday, 21 December 2012

update: Selection of 2012 Computing publications

A selection of 2012 publications involving staff from the Department of Computing and Immersive Technologies, University of Northampton

Journals

Turner, S (2012) Case Studies in Web Sustainability Ariadne No 70 ISSN: 1361-3200
Maunder, R., Turner, S., Sneddon, S. and Crouch, A. (2012) Editorial. Enhancing the Learner Experience in Higher Education. 4(1), pp. 1-2. 2041-3122.
ihsan lami, Ali Al-Sherbaz (2013) W2BC: A Proposal for a Converged Baseband Implementation of WiMax and WiFi Transceivers International Journal of Information and Network Security (IJINS) Vol.2, No.1, February 2013, pp. 426 - 437 ISSN: 2089-329
Kariyawasam K., A., Turner S., Hill G. (2012) "Is it Visual? The importance of a Problem Solving Module within a Computing course", Computer Education, Volume 10, Issue 166, May 2012, pp. 5-7, ISSN: 1672-5913.
Hill G., Turner S. (2012) "Referencing within Code in Software Engineering Education!", Computer Education, Volume 10, Issue 166, May 2012, pp. 1-4, ISSN: 1672-5913.
J.W.J.Xue and A. Yahya. (2012) “Critical Analysis of ECM Applications in the Clouds: a case study”, International Journal of Computer Science and Information Technology (IJCSIT) Vol.4 No. 3, June 2012. ISBN:0795-4660.

Conference

Padillia I, Zhang Y (2012)Developing a haptic interface to manipulate and section high polygon models from x-ray data, International Conference on Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS201)
Dravid R and Al-Sherbaz, A (2012) Optimization of Routing Protocols for Wireless Mesh Networks (WMNs) to Achieve Higher Quality of Service for Real-Time Applications 3rd Annual Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing, Bangalore, India, December 12-14 2012
Turner, S. and Al-Sherbaz, A. (2012) What's the problem with problem-solving? Seminar Presentation presented to: Insights into the future of learning and teaching at Northampton, University of Northampton, 3rd December 2012
Bouyerbou, H. Oukid, S. Benblidiya N. and Bechkoum, K. (2012). “Hybrid Image Representation Methods for Automatic Image Annotation: A Survey”. Proceedings of the IEEE International Conference on Signals and Electronic Systems, ICSCS 2012, 18-21 September 2012, Wroclaw, Poland.
Al-Sherbaz Ali, Dravid Rashmi, Svennevik Espen and Picton Phil (2012)" iSurvival: A Collaborative Mobile Network System for Disaster Management" PRO-VE’12 -13th Working Conference on Virtual Enterprises : Collaborative Networks in the Internet of Services, University of Bournemouth, 1-3 October 2012
Al-Sherbaz A, Dravid R (2012) "Ultilising Mobile Mesh Networks for Disaster Management" M4D2012, 27-29 February 2012, New Delhi, India

Sunday, 10 June 2012

CEISEE 2012 - Shanghai

Recently two members of the Department of Computing (Gary Hill and Scott Turner), University of Northampton went to CEISEE 2012 in Shanghai, the 8th symposium is this series, following on from Northampton last year.

Two papers were presented see http://computingnorthampton.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/teaching-and-learning-journal-papers.html in the Journal of Computer Education.

The symposium focused on the teach of Software Engineering and preparing students to be both technically competent but also employable as possible. Perspectives and experiences from China, UK, Germany, France, Ireland and Italy were all presented, discussed and considered; along with the importance and the advantages of transnational programmes. Some very interesting discussions about potential for collaborative research in all these areas were held.

Shanghai was a very pleasant city for this friendly symposium.

Saturday, 11 June 2011

Virtual Learning Environment (VLE)

Aleksandra Dziubek

The dissertation focuses on various aspects of Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) - a type of online systems created to support traditional education methods and provide better student-teacher communication.

Research was conducted to learn more about the VLEs currently available on the market (Moodle and Blackboard) and compare their functionalities. Also the features of NILE - the VLE presently used by the University of Northampton - were investigated in terms of usefulness and user satisfaction.

Based on the research results a prototype of a new VLE for the University of Northampton was created and presented to the students and tutors of the Computing division of the University of Northampton. The web application is aimed at improving user experience and encouraging students and tutors to make the most of the offered functionalities.
The users can create their personal profile, find and add the modules they teach/study, view module profile, find people they know and add them as their friends. The users can also post messages visible to their friends and upload files. Other functionalities include Organizer - a section where useful information about public transport, time tables and upcoming assignments can be found.

The prototype received very positive reviews from the students and tutors who took part in testing. The survey that was conducted among the testers showed that they rated the prototype higher than the existing one.
The authoress made an effort to use only valid code when implementing the application and make sure that it works properly on all popular web browsers, including mobile browsers.
Screenshots are taken from the website.