Inquiry-Based Learning Used for Implementation of BCD Adders in the Course "Digital Electronics"

The paper illustrates the application of inquiry-based learning for implementing BCD (Binary-Coded Decimal) adders studied in the course "Digital Electronics" in the University of Ruse as a way of teaching this topic making the classes more attractive to the students using active learning methods. Single-, two-, three-, and four-digit BCD adders were implemented with different computer-based tools, such as Microsoft Excel, Logisim, and ISE (Integrated Synthesis Environment) Project Navigator. Using this approach in the training process makes the classes more attractive and the students’ final assessment more effective. Students investigate the theoretical problems in advance based on the "flipped classroom" approach, and then using various computer-based tools students can implement and test the devices with lab-boards developed in the University of Ruse and based on FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays).