New Perspectives in Science Education

Today the teaching staff in the universities around the world discusses the possibility of using digital tools to deepen the connection with students. The main methods are face-to-face teaching, online teaching, independent learning, assessment and feedback, using information and communication technologies to enhance teaching and learning. Different types of channel codes – linear block, cyclic, BCH, convolutional and Reed-Solomon codes – are studied in the course "Coding in Telecommunication Systems" in the University of Ruse. Reed-Solomon codes are hardly perceived by students because of the need to possess complex mathematical knowledge in the area of the finite Galois fields. This necessitates the development of a tool for an attractive way to present the process of the systematic encoding using a linear feedback shift register (LFSR) instead of using the division of polynomials in Galois fields. The paper presents MATLAB-based interactive simulation model with a graphical user interface, demonstrating the process of the systematic encoding a message using (7, 3) Reed-Solomon code,
based on Galois field GF(23), generated by primitive irreducible polynomials, based on a linear feedback shift register (LFSR).The model is composed of three parts: an input sequence register, an encoder, and an output sequence register. The model can work in three modes: Step by Step, Automatic and Manual. In Step by Step mode, the micro operations required for the encoding are performed after pressing the key "Next", the user is able to monitor and learn every action in the encoding process. In Automatic mode, the entire encoding process takes place without interruption from the beginning to the end. In Manual mode, the user selects micro operations on his/her own and the system monitors the sequence of actions and in case of wrong choice, displays an error message and prevents the next action until the correct micro operation is performed. In this mode, the system enables the user to be evaluated by points for each correct answer. The application is used in the courses “Coding in Telecommunication Systems” and “Reliability and Diagnostics of Computer Systems" by students at the University of Ruse “Angel Kanchev”.
 

Keywords:Teaching and learning, Reed-Solomon codes, Interactive simulation model, Encoding, MATLAB;

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