College and university freshmen frequently enroll in a program that turns out to be a poor fit wi... more College and university freshmen frequently enroll in a program that turns out to be a poor fit with their interests and abilities. This is especially problematic in the computing disciplines. Consequently, students who start in a computing program they are not committed to, can take longer to graduate, have larger student loans, have a lower GPA, and may end up majoring in a field that they do not want to work in, or like. There are 5 major computing sub-disciplines, and while they share a ‘computing’ theme, there are significant differences between the disciplines. Often, students do not know the difference between the sub-disciplines and will enroll in one based on incorrect assumptions about that sub-discipline. It is the belief of the presenters that a contributing factor to this problem is that STEM teachers and guidance counselors are not fully aware of the differences between the programs, due to a lack of information. In this poster session, the presenters will provide coherent information about the computing sub-disciplines in a format that educators and counselors can use to assist students enter the sub-discipline that best matches their interests and abilities
The increased utilization of Distributed Generation Sources (DGS) have imposed serious challenges... more The increased utilization of Distributed Generation Sources (DGS) have imposed serious challenges to electric utilities. The integration of DGS with power electronics-based devices has traditionally posed greater risk to stability and reliability of the power grid. Advancements in system modeling and simulation can help maintain the integrity of power systems with significant DGS penetration. In this paper, a computer package library for multi-purposes alternative sources has been developed and presented as an effective technique for designing and modeling DGS systems. The proposed computer package library can be implemented with the aid of Graphical User Interface (GUI), MATLAB/Simulink, and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model. The library is user friendly and can be implemented by switching between different blocks according to the user needs. The main blocks of the package are: Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panel Characteristics Model, Optimum PV Model Block, Solar Installation Panel...
In today's world, with the advent of internet, the network security has become a necessity to... more In today's world, with the advent of internet, the network security has become a necessity to protect the usability and integrity of network and data. Traditional firewalls are incapable of coping with emerging threats such as targeted and data focused attacks. In this paper, a survey of the different types of current and next generation firewalls are discussed in details highlighting their potential functionalities. The different technologies implemented in Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) for network security are highlighted. Additionally, the advantages of the next generation firewalls were compared against the traditional firewalls. Also in this paper, the primary network security goals, their recent emerging security threats, and their potential solutions to protect the network are discussed.
ABSTRACT We survey twenty years of research literature on video frame size forecasting. We organi... more ABSTRACT We survey twenty years of research literature on video frame size forecasting. We organize the discussion of the literature using model type and model parameters as a taxonomy. We discuss how to use video frame size forecasts to forecast video bandwidth requirements. We provide extensive comparisons of forecast accuracy among the various mechanisms using data extracted from the literature and a set of common experiments we conducted. Lastly, we summarize our findings with respect to forecast accuracy and we identify open areas for research.
2012 IEEE International Conference on Electro/Information Technology, 2012
We experimentally explore the forecast accuracy of three forecast model types, namely (i) Auto-Re... more We experimentally explore the forecast accuracy of three forecast model types, namely (i) Auto-Regressive (AR), (ii) Moving Average (MA), and (iii) Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA). Specifically, we use a set of five MPEG-4 video traces and measure the Normalized Mean Squared Error (NMSE) for each of the model types with varying model parameters. We find that increasing model order
-In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrica... more -In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrical Engineering (EE) program at Georgia Southern University to meet the ABET criteria dealing with the student learning outcomes (SLOs). Both direct and indirect measures were used to collect and analyze data to assess the attainments of the student learning outcomes. To ensure data integrity, multiple faculty were involved in the development of a set of rubrics with benchmarks and performance indicators at both the program and curriculum levels. These tools provided action plans for this continuous improvement process to be implemented during the academic year. We also describe the mechanism used for assessing student performance at the curriculum level including the use of a course-level outcomes (CLO) form, a continuous improvement efforts (CIE) form, and a student course evaluation (SCE) form. These standardized forms are usually completed by faculty and submitted to the assessment com...
In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration... more In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration in an Electrical Engineering program is presented. The aim of this course is to introduce students to contemporary topics related to distributed generation, micro-grids, renewable energy sources, and smart homes applications. This proposed 4-credit course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge from the basic concepts of power systems to the inherent elements of computational intelligence including decision support systems, smart metering, cyber security, optimization, and renewable energy sources. The automation and computational techniques involved in Smart Grid technologies are also introduced with special emphasis on the interoperability of different renewable energy sources without losing the integrity and reliability of the existing power systems. Furthermore, the standards and requirements for designing new devices and products for Smart Grid applications are int...
In this paper, we discuss our approach on how to achieve adaptive teaching which leads to a more ... more In this paper, we discuss our approach on how to achieve adaptive teaching which leads to a more efficient learner-centered environment. Based on the Felder-Silverman learning styles model, there are four scales for the learning aptitude which are active/reflective learners, sensing/intuitive learners, visual/verbal learners, and sequential/global learners. The different conglomeration of these scales for the students in any cohort forms a specific cognitive profile. We used the Felder-Soloman index of learning styles survey to determine the dominant learning styles within a cohort of students. Knowing the students’ cognitive profile helped us adapt our teaching styles to achieve an optimal learner-centered classroom. We mainly focused on activities that would engage the majority of the students, to help facilitate the learning process and consequently, improve the students’ achievement. The effectiveness of this approach was quantitatively verified by assessing the students’ satisf...
The aftermath of natural disasters leaves communities across the nation devastated for years afte... more The aftermath of natural disasters leaves communities across the nation devastated for years after they occur. When communication systems go down, natural disasters become much more dangerous. Those who live in rural areas have an increased risk of supplies shortage because there are less stores with vital supplies (such as food and water). Furthermore, roads to stores with these supplies may be inaccessible. Utilizing recent advancements in artificial intelligence and consumer drone technology, we design a swarm of drones capable of identifying locations with inaccessible roads and post these locations to a virtual map. Those involved in the relief efforts would have access to this virtual map, and residents in need can be reached in a more efficient manner. The main result of our work is the design of a system of drones that stream their camera feeds to a base computer, and the use of the deep learning image classifier to process this data in real time. The design of this disaster...
In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrical... more In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrical Engineering (EE) program at Georgia Southern University to meet the ABET criteria dealing with the student learning outcomes (SLOs). Both direct and indirect measures were used to collect and analyze data to assess the attainments of the student learning outcomes. To ensure data integrity, multiple faculty were involved in the development of a set of rubrics with benchmarks and performance indicators at both the program and curriculum levels. These tools provided action plans for this continuous improvement process to be implemented during the academic year. We also describe the mechanism used for assessing student performance at the curriculum level including the use of a course-level outcomes (CLO) form, a continuous improvement efforts (CIE) form, and a student course evaluation (SCE) form. These standardized forms are usually completed by faculty and submitted to the assessment comm...
In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration... more In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration in an Electrical Engineering program is presented. The aim of this course is to introduce students to contemporary topics related to distributed generation, micro-grids, renewable energy sources, and smart homes applications. This proposed 4-credit course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge from the basic concepts of power systems to the inherent elements of computational intelligence including decision support systems, smart metering, cyber security, optimization, and renewable energy sources. The automation and computational techniques involved in Smart Grid technologies are also introduced with special emphasis on the interoperability of different renewable energy sources without losing the integrity and reliability of the existing power systems. Furthermore, the standards and requirements for designing new devices and products for Smart Grid applications are int...
Journal of Engineering Research and Technology, 2014
Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) are very popular in many industrial applicationssuch... more Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) are very popular in many industrial applicationssuchasinmechatronics, automotive, energy storage flywheels, centrifugal compressors, vacuum pumps, and robotics. This paper proposes Sensorless control for a PMSM speed drive which is based on aclosedloopcontrol system using a proportional and integral (PI) controller that is designed to operate in flux weakening regions under a constant torque angle.This Sensorless elementwasadopted for best estimating the PMSM rotor position based on its performance characteristicseliminatingthe need for speed sensorswhich are usually required insuchcontrol applications. To achieve this goal, apulse width modulation (PWM) control scheme was developed to work in conjuction with a field oriented motor controldriveusingSimulink.Thisinnovative control system was simulated assuming realistic circuit components to maximize the accuracy of the proposed model.Finally, simulation results obtained under different op...
In this paper, we analyzed the perception of Computational Thinking among engineering students fr... more In this paper, we analyzed the perception of Computational Thinking among engineering students from three different engineering disciplines (Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil) and correlated their performance with their discipline. The goal of this analysis is to determine whether structuring discipline-specific Computational Thinking courses is more beneficial than the current setting which allows for student multidisciplinary interaction. This analysis was quantitatively verified by assessing the students' performance in over 40 different sections of Computing for Engineers course taught over two years period (2012-2014). Our sample consisted of 861 students (142 Civil, 484 Mechanical, and 235 Electrical). Students’ performance was assessed using quizzes, assignments, lab projects, and exams. We statistically analyzed students' performance and presented our findings which are thought to help the structuring of Computational Thinking courses in multidisciplinary engineering...
College and university freshmen frequently enroll in a program that turns out to be a poor fit wi... more College and university freshmen frequently enroll in a program that turns out to be a poor fit with their interests and abilities. This is especially problematic in the computing disciplines. Consequently, students who start in a computing program they are not committed to, can take longer to graduate, have larger student loans, have a lower GPA, and may end up majoring in a field that they do not want to work in, or like. There are 5 major computing sub-disciplines, and while they share a ‘computing’ theme, there are significant differences between the disciplines. Often, students do not know the difference between the sub-disciplines and will enroll in one based on incorrect assumptions about that sub-discipline. It is the belief of the presenters that a contributing factor to this problem is that STEM teachers and guidance counselors are not fully aware of the differences between the programs, due to a lack of information. In this poster session, the presenters will provide coherent information about the computing sub-disciplines in a format that educators and counselors can use to assist students enter the sub-discipline that best matches their interests and abilities
The increased utilization of Distributed Generation Sources (DGS) have imposed serious challenges... more The increased utilization of Distributed Generation Sources (DGS) have imposed serious challenges to electric utilities. The integration of DGS with power electronics-based devices has traditionally posed greater risk to stability and reliability of the power grid. Advancements in system modeling and simulation can help maintain the integrity of power systems with significant DGS penetration. In this paper, a computer package library for multi-purposes alternative sources has been developed and presented as an effective technique for designing and modeling DGS systems. The proposed computer package library can be implemented with the aid of Graphical User Interface (GUI), MATLAB/Simulink, and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model. The library is user friendly and can be implemented by switching between different blocks according to the user needs. The main blocks of the package are: Photovoltaic (PV) Solar Panel Characteristics Model, Optimum PV Model Block, Solar Installation Panel...
In today's world, with the advent of internet, the network security has become a necessity to... more In today's world, with the advent of internet, the network security has become a necessity to protect the usability and integrity of network and data. Traditional firewalls are incapable of coping with emerging threats such as targeted and data focused attacks. In this paper, a survey of the different types of current and next generation firewalls are discussed in details highlighting their potential functionalities. The different technologies implemented in Next Generation Firewall (NGFW) for network security are highlighted. Additionally, the advantages of the next generation firewalls were compared against the traditional firewalls. Also in this paper, the primary network security goals, their recent emerging security threats, and their potential solutions to protect the network are discussed.
ABSTRACT We survey twenty years of research literature on video frame size forecasting. We organi... more ABSTRACT We survey twenty years of research literature on video frame size forecasting. We organize the discussion of the literature using model type and model parameters as a taxonomy. We discuss how to use video frame size forecasts to forecast video bandwidth requirements. We provide extensive comparisons of forecast accuracy among the various mechanisms using data extracted from the literature and a set of common experiments we conducted. Lastly, we summarize our findings with respect to forecast accuracy and we identify open areas for research.
2012 IEEE International Conference on Electro/Information Technology, 2012
We experimentally explore the forecast accuracy of three forecast model types, namely (i) Auto-Re... more We experimentally explore the forecast accuracy of three forecast model types, namely (i) Auto-Regressive (AR), (ii) Moving Average (MA), and (iii) Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA). Specifically, we use a set of five MPEG-4 video traces and measure the Normalized Mean Squared Error (NMSE) for each of the model types with varying model parameters. We find that increasing model order
-In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrica... more -In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrical Engineering (EE) program at Georgia Southern University to meet the ABET criteria dealing with the student learning outcomes (SLOs). Both direct and indirect measures were used to collect and analyze data to assess the attainments of the student learning outcomes. To ensure data integrity, multiple faculty were involved in the development of a set of rubrics with benchmarks and performance indicators at both the program and curriculum levels. These tools provided action plans for this continuous improvement process to be implemented during the academic year. We also describe the mechanism used for assessing student performance at the curriculum level including the use of a course-level outcomes (CLO) form, a continuous improvement efforts (CIE) form, and a student course evaluation (SCE) form. These standardized forms are usually completed by faculty and submitted to the assessment com...
In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration... more In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration in an Electrical Engineering program is presented. The aim of this course is to introduce students to contemporary topics related to distributed generation, micro-grids, renewable energy sources, and smart homes applications. This proposed 4-credit course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge from the basic concepts of power systems to the inherent elements of computational intelligence including decision support systems, smart metering, cyber security, optimization, and renewable energy sources. The automation and computational techniques involved in Smart Grid technologies are also introduced with special emphasis on the interoperability of different renewable energy sources without losing the integrity and reliability of the existing power systems. Furthermore, the standards and requirements for designing new devices and products for Smart Grid applications are int...
In this paper, we discuss our approach on how to achieve adaptive teaching which leads to a more ... more In this paper, we discuss our approach on how to achieve adaptive teaching which leads to a more efficient learner-centered environment. Based on the Felder-Silverman learning styles model, there are four scales for the learning aptitude which are active/reflective learners, sensing/intuitive learners, visual/verbal learners, and sequential/global learners. The different conglomeration of these scales for the students in any cohort forms a specific cognitive profile. We used the Felder-Soloman index of learning styles survey to determine the dominant learning styles within a cohort of students. Knowing the students’ cognitive profile helped us adapt our teaching styles to achieve an optimal learner-centered classroom. We mainly focused on activities that would engage the majority of the students, to help facilitate the learning process and consequently, improve the students’ achievement. The effectiveness of this approach was quantitatively verified by assessing the students’ satisf...
The aftermath of natural disasters leaves communities across the nation devastated for years afte... more The aftermath of natural disasters leaves communities across the nation devastated for years after they occur. When communication systems go down, natural disasters become much more dangerous. Those who live in rural areas have an increased risk of supplies shortage because there are less stores with vital supplies (such as food and water). Furthermore, roads to stores with these supplies may be inaccessible. Utilizing recent advancements in artificial intelligence and consumer drone technology, we design a swarm of drones capable of identifying locations with inaccessible roads and post these locations to a virtual map. Those involved in the relief efforts would have access to this virtual map, and residents in need can be reached in a more efficient manner. The main result of our work is the design of a system of drones that stream their camera feeds to a base computer, and the use of the deep learning image classifier to process this data in real time. The design of this disaster...
In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrical... more In this paper, we present a multifaceted assessment process that was developed for our Electrical Engineering (EE) program at Georgia Southern University to meet the ABET criteria dealing with the student learning outcomes (SLOs). Both direct and indirect measures were used to collect and analyze data to assess the attainments of the student learning outcomes. To ensure data integrity, multiple faculty were involved in the development of a set of rubrics with benchmarks and performance indicators at both the program and curriculum levels. These tools provided action plans for this continuous improvement process to be implemented during the academic year. We also describe the mechanism used for assessing student performance at the curriculum level including the use of a course-level outcomes (CLO) form, a continuous improvement efforts (CIE) form, and a student course evaluation (SCE) form. These standardized forms are usually completed by faculty and submitted to the assessment comm...
In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration... more In this paper, a new course in smart grid technologies to enhance the power systems concentration in an Electrical Engineering program is presented. The aim of this course is to introduce students to contemporary topics related to distributed generation, micro-grids, renewable energy sources, and smart homes applications. This proposed 4-credit course is designed to provide students with a working knowledge from the basic concepts of power systems to the inherent elements of computational intelligence including decision support systems, smart metering, cyber security, optimization, and renewable energy sources. The automation and computational techniques involved in Smart Grid technologies are also introduced with special emphasis on the interoperability of different renewable energy sources without losing the integrity and reliability of the existing power systems. Furthermore, the standards and requirements for designing new devices and products for Smart Grid applications are int...
Journal of Engineering Research and Technology, 2014
Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) are very popular in many industrial applicationssuch... more Permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSM) are very popular in many industrial applicationssuchasinmechatronics, automotive, energy storage flywheels, centrifugal compressors, vacuum pumps, and robotics. This paper proposes Sensorless control for a PMSM speed drive which is based on aclosedloopcontrol system using a proportional and integral (PI) controller that is designed to operate in flux weakening regions under a constant torque angle.This Sensorless elementwasadopted for best estimating the PMSM rotor position based on its performance characteristicseliminatingthe need for speed sensorswhich are usually required insuchcontrol applications. To achieve this goal, apulse width modulation (PWM) control scheme was developed to work in conjuction with a field oriented motor controldriveusingSimulink.Thisinnovative control system was simulated assuming realistic circuit components to maximize the accuracy of the proposed model.Finally, simulation results obtained under different op...
In this paper, we analyzed the perception of Computational Thinking among engineering students fr... more In this paper, we analyzed the perception of Computational Thinking among engineering students from three different engineering disciplines (Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil) and correlated their performance with their discipline. The goal of this analysis is to determine whether structuring discipline-specific Computational Thinking courses is more beneficial than the current setting which allows for student multidisciplinary interaction. This analysis was quantitatively verified by assessing the students' performance in over 40 different sections of Computing for Engineers course taught over two years period (2012-2014). Our sample consisted of 861 students (142 Civil, 484 Mechanical, and 235 Electrical). Students’ performance was assessed using quizzes, assignments, lab projects, and exams. We statistically analyzed students' performance and presented our findings which are thought to help the structuring of Computational Thinking courses in multidisciplinary engineering...
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