Project-based learning applied to an embedded systems course

The aim of this work is to present a proposal for project-based learning applied to an embedded systems course. The proposal involves projects associated with the area of control and automation, in which the student develops solutions in embedded systems with microcontrollers. The projects envisage the development of closed-loop control techniques for various types of dynamic system. The proposed method was applied during four semesters (2012.1, 2012.2, 2013.1, and 2013.2) in the Digital Systems course of the Computer Engineering programme at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte (UFRN). The results of opinion surveys conducted with the students during the four semesters are presented in order to validate the proposed project-based learning method. Full details of implementation of the method are also provided in order to assist others involved in teaching similar academic programmes.