Development and Evaluation of Equipment for Structure ofan IP address Based on Physical Visualization and Physical Direct Manipulation

Abstract

A problem with studying networks is the difficulty associated with conducting experiments and practical training. In addition, network systems have become an infrastructure of society. Usually, we cannot see how networks work. Thus, it is difficult for students to imagine network systems and technologies. We have been developing new educational equipment for the structure of an IP address technology based on the concept of physical visualization and direct manipulation. The equipment can visualize how a network using LED physically operates. Additionally, the equipment provides direct physical manipulation using dials and buttons.We evaluated the equipment by using it to conduct practical applications for junior high school students and first graders. We established an experimental group and a control group. Then, we conducted a pre-test and post-test with each group. The scores on the post-test tended to be higher for the experimental group, so we confirmed the effectiveness of the equipment.