Cooperative learning in computer architecture: an educational project and its network support

This paper describes the design, setup and evaluation of an educational project in computer architecture studies. Its design through the educational-telematic framework DELFOS, proposed by the authors' research group, aims to employ computer supported collaborative learning in computer engineering studies. Its main objective is to integrate lectures, simple assignments and laboratory work through projects and case studies in computer architecture design and evaluation. Experimental studies were carried out during two academic years with very encouraging results. At least three student groups in each session dealt with one out of 5 distinct case studies. Students assumed the roles of consulting firm and computer manufacturer, who try to give an answer to a specific customer/market sector. Cooperative learning was carried out through synchronous guided discussions within the class in key dates, asynchronous document sharing and discussions, as well as collaborative edition of the final project report. Analysis of the experimental work was performed on both ethnographic data and computer transcriptions, while current studies deal with student interactions with social network analysis methods.