Docker-Based Assignment Evaluations in E-Learning

This scholarly discourse presents a novel architecture for automating student assignment evaluations leveraging the Docker environment. The innovative design promotes individualized technology selection by students for problem-solving in academic assignments. The assessment of these assignments relies on the utilization of RESTful APIs encapsulated in the student-submitted containers. A cornerstone of the design is its emphasis on system security and scalability. To achieve this, the evaluation process employs sandboxing techniques such as containerization and temporary user creation. Scalability is addressed through an asynchronous task queue for testing, fostering adaptability to varied workload intensities. The proposed system was employed as a demonstrative case study for the database technologies course at the Faculty of Informatics and Information Technologies, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava. Practical implementation of this model revealed enhanced efficiency in assignment evaluation, promoting the integration of technology and pedagogy. The system is made publicly available as an open-source project, allowing for further collaborative development and adaptations to diverse educational contexts. This research advances the current understanding of how Docker-based environments can significantly augment e-learning systems, thereby proposing a promising avenue for future scholarly exploration.