Online Authentic Instruction For Embedded Systems Applications And Processor Selection

The Internet has become an important professional and educational resource. We teach its use while introducing students to embedded systems. Embedded systems are important for our graduates because of the current growth in the field of pervasive computing as well as the billions of embedded computer chips currently used in a huge variety of products1. BYU has developed an embedded systems course with the goal of helping students become competent in implementing multiple types of embedded systems. As an introduction to these systems, it is desirable to present a broad perspective of the many different systems, applications, processor types, operating systems and development environments that are now available. It is also desirable to acquaint students with professional on-line documentation of varying quality. This article describes an on-line introductory module that helps students develop an understanding of available microcontroller systems. This topic is well suited to web instruction for several reasons: 1) The web is the most current repository of information on processors. 2) The state-ofthe-art in processors is highly dynamic. 3) The web techniques taught closely parallel the methods used by professionals to select components for a project. In the module, students explore different types and capabilities of available processors and develop a sense of how each processor fits into the spectrum. The module uses authentic exercises and assessment methods to enhance the relevance of this experience. Students complete a series of exercises to enable them to: 1) Search on-line for available state-of-the-art systems. 2) Select a microcontroller given specifications. 3) Identify microcontroller or embedded applications. 4) Select a microcontroller for a given application. Students are encouraged to become familiar with embedded computer products from several different manufacturers. Introduction If students are to become successful technical professionals they need to be able to access and use