Development and evaluation of a Virtual Learning Environment to enhance mathematical proficiency in teaching circuits within engineering programs

Abstract

A virtual learning environment was designed and implemented to enhance the mathematical skills of engineering students taking the Circuits course at the Faculty of Engineering, Autonomous University of Baja California. The content of the VLE was based on the mathematical skills and knowledge required by students to achieve adequate academic performance in the Circuits course, as well as the needs identified by academics in basic sciences and electrical engineering. The methodology for constructing the virtual learning environment involved the development of an instructional design for the virtual creation of instructional modules that motivate students to utilize the provided educational resources. The deployment of the virtual learning environment took place on the institutional platform BlackBoard during the 2023-1 academic term, involving 47 voluntary students. A positive correlation of 0,51 was found between grades in the environment's activities and final grades in the Circuits course. The time dedicated to the environment was crucial, as 77% of students who invested at least 70% of the allocated time for the VLE activities successfully passed the Circuits course. These results offer valuable insights for improving teaching and student performance.