Uma proposta de jogo de tabuleiro para auxiliar o ensino da disciplina de redes de computadores

Abstract

The activities performed by a network analyst in a data center are complex and abstruse from the point of view of a student new to the field. Such activities involve the configuration of servers and equipment and in addition the connectivity between passive and active components of the network. This paper presents NABG, a board game whose purpose is to introduce students to the area of computer networks, focused on data center activities. The students obtained an essential theoretical and practical knowledge in Computer Networks playing the NABG. This knowledge was measured by professors from the computer network disciplines who stated an 8% increase in student assessment. The research question points to the effectiveness of the NABG. What is the knowledge gain in computer networks of students who played NABG? It is important to emphasize that these are students from the initial periods who do not yet have basic knowledge in certain areas. There were two experimental tests that modified the board game. However, the main method was the experimental method. The latter, reported more rigorously in this work, was taken to a group of students from UTFPR / CP's DACOM computer courses together with teachers in the area of networks. After the experimental test, a score table was included in the game, contemplating the connectivity between passive and active components of the network. This table was reported by the teachers as essential and the knowledge described in it was permeated by the students during the game. In addition, there was greater interactivity among students, resulting from the applied game mechanics. Consequently, in addition to increasing interest in the area, students have elaborated more complex questions. The teachers found that after playing, students dissipated more accurate during the course.