FROM VIRTUAL TO TANGIBLE: GESTURAL EXPERIENCE IN COMPUTER NETWORK EDUCATION.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: FROM VIRTUAL TO TANGIBLE: GESTURAL EXPERIENCE IN COMPUTER NETWORK EDUCATION.
Alternate Title: DO VIRTUAL AO TANGÍVEL: A EXPERIÊNCIA GESTUAL NA EDUCAÇÃO DE REDES DE COMPUTADORES.
Authors: Eduardo Filgueiras Damasceno1 damasceno@utfpr.edu.br, Iwana Takano, Maurício2 takano@utfpr.edu.br, Luiz Przybysz, André1 andrelp@utfpr.edu.br, da Silva, Armando Paulo1 armando@utfpr.edu.br, Locatelli, Ederson Luis1 locatelli@utfpr.edu.br, dos Santos Domingues, André Luís3 anddomingues@utfpr.edu.br
Source: Brazilian Journal of Education, Technology & Society (BRAJETS) / Cadernos de Educação Tecnologia e Sociedade (CETS). Oct-Dec2025, Vol. 18 Issue 4, p1654-1662. 9p.
Subject Terms: *Student engagement, *Educational technology, *Internet in education, Gesture controlled interfaces (Computer systems), User-centered system design, Ergonomics, Virtual networks, Technology Acceptance Model
Abstract (English): While network simulators are commonplace in IT education, many fail to progress beyond basic skill replication within a synthetic environment. This article presents a study on the user acceptance of an innovative pedagogical simulator for computer network assembly that utilizes natural gestural interaction. Our investigation, focused on ergonomics, usability, and learner engagement, involved a cohort of student volunteers. Analysis of user perceptions reveals that system aesthetics, ease of use, and perceived utility are significant predictors of both satisfaction and overall usefulness. The findings demonstrate that bilateral (two-handed) gestural interaction enhances user immersion and satisfaction. The study also identifies current limitations, including insufficient auditory feedback and a lack of accessibility features for students with special needs. We propose future developments centered on interface personalization and ongoing research to validate the simulator's efficacy in long-term skill retention and educational outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Abstract (Portuguese): Embora os simuladores de rede sejam comuns no ensino de TI, muitos não conseguem ir além da replicação de habilidades básicas em um ambiente sintético. Este artigo apresenta um estudo sobre a aceitação dos usuários de um simulador pedagógico inovador para montagem de redes de computadores que utiliza interação gestual natural. Nossa investigação, focada em ergonomia, usabilidade e envolvimento do aluno, envolveu um grupo de estudantes voluntários. A análise das percepções dos usuários revela que a estética do sistema, a facilidade de uso e a utilidade percebida são preditores significativos tanto da satisfação quanto da utilidade geral. Os resultados demonstram que a interação gestual bilateral (com as duas mãos) aumenta a imersão e a satisfação do usuário. O estudo também identifica limitações atuais, incluindo feedback auditivo insuficiente e falta de recursos de acessibilidade para alunos com necessidades especiais. Propomos desenvolvimentos futuros centrados na personalização da interface e pesquisas contínuas para validar a eficácia do simulador na retenção de habilidades a longo prazo e nos resultados educacionais. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Education Research Complete
Description
Abstract:While network simulators are commonplace in IT education, many fail to progress beyond basic skill replication within a synthetic environment. This article presents a study on the user acceptance of an innovative pedagogical simulator for computer network assembly that utilizes natural gestural interaction. Our investigation, focused on ergonomics, usability, and learner engagement, involved a cohort of student volunteers. Analysis of user perceptions reveals that system aesthetics, ease of use, and perceived utility are significant predictors of both satisfaction and overall usefulness. The findings demonstrate that bilateral (two-handed) gestural interaction enhances user immersion and satisfaction. The study also identifies current limitations, including insufficient auditory feedback and a lack of accessibility features for students with special needs. We propose future developments centered on interface personalization and ongoing research to validate the simulator's efficacy in long-term skill retention and educational outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:23169907
DOI:10.14571/brajets.v18.n4.1654-1662