Systematic review of rigorous research in teaching introductory circuitsSystematic review is a meta-analytical framework for quantitatively searching, sorting, and synthesizing scholarly research on a particular topic. Systematic review techniques have recently gained traction in the field of engineering education. A systematic review performed over a specific area of practice can consolidate results from many studies into a synthesis of best practices. This paper presents the best practices for teaching introductory circuits which were identified through a systematic review of prior research. Relevant publications were identified and appraised with a set of coding criteria generated by the researchers. The coding results were examined and used to write a mixed-methods synthesis of consensus, disagreement, quality, and limitations amongst studies identified by the systematic literature review. The results of the review may inform educational techniques employed in post-secondary introductory circuits courses.
Modelling thin-film transistors for understanding material properties and improving electronic device performanceAs new materials continue to develop through theoretical and experimental findings, it is desirable to have a reliable method of testing the materials to better understand their unique properties. Reliable computer modelling of electronic devices composed of these materials provides an inexpensive means of determining how a material will perform. Here we demonstrate the use of a computer software to accurately model electronic devices. We focus on amorphous silicon thin-film transistors and relate what is observed computationally to published experimental and theoretical results. We show that the computer models can be used to accurately study materials for applications in advanced electronic devices. We then discuss opportunities in new materials discovery that this type of modelling might permit.