Conceptual Model of Software Architecture in Instruction Java Web Frameworks

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to determine appropriate methods for efficient learning and adoption of new software technologies. We considered Expert Modeling (EM) and Self Guided Modeling (SGM) approaches of Model Centered Instruction applied to learning Java Web Application frameworks. As a conceptual model we focused on software architecture, and thereby provided integral (expert) meta-model represented in 3D learning environment. To evaluate this approach, we conducted an experiment with two groups of students using the two different instruction approaches. Finally, we used statistical methods to determine whether there was an observable effect of the instructional approach that used the integral metamodel JSP Model 2 software architecture. Although the number of participants in the experiment was limited, our findings confirmed that the use of different Model Centered Instructions has significant impact on learning efficiency. Our experience shows that application of EM in learning Java Web application frameworks gives better results compared to those obtained by applying SGM.