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Authors
Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
The use of gamification in teaching is not a novelty. It has been recognized as an effective method for fostering academic and practical skills, while simultaneously enhancing student engagement and motivation. In this
work, we report on the use of web-based apps in classroom for introducing concepts and methods of Operational Research (OR) to students of Logistics and Business. Specifically, the Burrito Optimization game, available by Gurobi, and the TSP DYI app, developed by William Cook of the University of Waterloo, are employed to introduce mathematical optimization. The Burrito Optimization game simulates the facility location problem, challenging students to strategically position food trucks to optimize costs and profits, thereby acquainting them with linear programming models. Similarly, the TSP DYI app gamifies the TSP, encouraging student participation and competition while acquainting them with heuristic algorithms and optimization techniques. Through student feedback analysis, this study explores the efficacy of these gamified approaches in enhancing student engagement with OR concepts and motivating further exploration of complex topics. These web-based apps serve as entry points for aspiring data scientists and problem solvers, teaching why optimization is valuable and important, why it is difficult and why solvers and other optimization algorithms are essential.
Description
Keywords
Gamification, TSP, Facility Location Problem, Teaching
Citation
Publisher
Paula Sarabando, Joana Fialho, Manuel Reis, Suzanne Amaro, Teresa Neto, Tiago Miguel