Arnold Hensman

Required features of a Virtual Classroom Tool for use in Higher Education

The integration of virtual-classroom systems into the arsenal of e-learning tools represents a major evolution in the landscape of modern distance education. For many courses, standard virtual learning environments (VLEs) provide only a foundation upon which to base a distance learning programme. However, synchronous live online-teaching software such as Microsoft Office Communicator and Adobe Connect allow educators to simulate a real-time classroom environment over the internet like never before. Since these tools are being used more and more within higher education, questions must be asked about how effective they ultimately can be in meeting student learning requirements. More importantly, what are the best practices to employ when conducting classes online in this way? This paper examines what basic requirements a virtual classroom tool should meet for higher education purposes with much reference to a variety of commercial brands available. Obstacles and restrictions that arise based on these requirements will be discussed in order to identify and overcoming them.

Vision for secure home robots: Implementation of two-factor authentication

The robotics industry is developing at a fast pace and it seems inevitable that home robots will become affordable, easily accessible and popular. They will be able to perform a will be able to perform a wide range of tasks ranging from household chores, entertainment, home security and surveillance and will become an important part of our lives. The robots like any other a computer system connected to a computer network is vulnerable to hackers. In the paper the authors aim to expose the vulnerabilities and ethical implications of using a popular home robot in order to encourage the research community to put their minds to this pertinent issue. The authors also provide a solution that needs to be developed upon to overcome the security risks.

Setting Up and Mentoring in CoderDojo Dublin 15

Initilally beginning in Ireland, CoderDojo is a non-profit organisation that has grown rapidly into a global network of community based programming clubs. Mentors teach coding skills to young people aged between 7 and 17. All classes are free of charge and clubs operate entirely on a volunteer basis. The first Dublin 15 based CoderDojo began just over two years ago and continues to thrive during weekend sessions held at The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB), which offers the use of its premises and resources for the sessions. This paper will chronicle the involvement of ITB staff and students with the CoderDojo, Dublin 15 branch from its inception. How the various contributions of all parties lead to a highly successful collaboration that ultimately led to classes becoming self-sustainable as a local facility for Dublin 15 children. Furthermore, this collaboration not only yielded benefits for the young people encountering coding for the first time, but spotlighted the previously untapped skillset of computing students and staff to engage in civic outreach in the wider community.