METTU UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

PROMOTING STUDENT SUCCESS THROUGH QUALITY COMPUTER

LAB ( IN MATTU UNIVERSITY, M.SC INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERING AND
MANAGEMENT)

Prepared by: Dame Tolossa Jebreruk

Supervisor: Dr Nasim Hasan

Co-supervisor:
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Contents
Abstract / Executive summary.....................................................................................................................2
1 Introduction.........................................................................................................................................1
2 Objectives............................................................................................................................................2
2.1 Main objectives............................................................................................................................2
2.2 Specific objectives........................................................................................................................2
3 Delimitation.........................................................................................................................................2
4 Literature Review................................................................................................................................3
5 Statement of the Problem.....................................................................................................................4
6 Methodology.......................................................................................................................................6
7 Expected outcome...............................................................................................................................7
8 Schedule The project timetable establishes the structure for the project, guiding when you enter
each phase. Therefore in this research the time to perform each process are follows as on the table below.
8
Conclusion...................................................................................................................................................9
References.................................................................................................................................................10

Abstract / Executive summary

Some historically colleges and universities do not have computer labs that can be seamlessly
integrated into classroom instruction, in contrast to many other colleges and universities across
the country. Layout of the computer lab, maintenance, software issues, and technical assistance,
including the ability to retain skilled experts, are all limiting considerations. Two surveys to
gauge the opinions of the professors and students were undertaken in an effort to recognize and
address such problems. The findings show a general lack of satisfaction among students and
professors with the campus's current lab capabilities and assistance.

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KEYWORDS: Technology, computer labs, quality education, and student success

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1 Introduction
The way that people learn has been significantly altered by technology, which is becoming an
increasingly significant component of contemporary education. Students can study more quickly
than ever before and successfully complete their objectives thanks to educational technology. In
order to support users' academic goals, higher education institutions offer computer labs and
support. Computer laboratories now serve as a variety of functions in addition to being just a
"room with technology," such as fostering academic research, social interaction, and teamwork
(Hawkins and Oblinger, 2007). Wired, wireless, and virtual computer labs are the three most
prevalent varieties. Advantages and disadvantages vary depending on the type of computer lab.
There are several computer lab kinds on some university and college campuses, but solely wired
ones on others.

Information Technology Centers (ITC) at four year public universities provide the technological
infrastructure and services necessary to support the University’s mission. These services include voice,
data, telecommunications, e-mail, Blackboard, Banner, computer labs and web services (Technology,
2015).

This study/paper looks at Mattu university Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial

Engineering and management) computer labs to see if they offer the right tools for staff and
students to succeed in their academic and professional endeavors. Since some computer services
are not well incorporated into learning environments. Students need access to personal
computers for both their own requirements and those of the classroom. Projects for graduate and
undergraduate students. To write, they rely on computers. Processing, web access, software
development, simulation, and email. Higher level statistical heir primary duties, which involve
programming and computation, require state modern technologies.

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2 Objectives
The objective of this study was to investigate the challenges related to using ICT among Mattu
university Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management) Department
computer laboratories

2.1 Main objectives

 Computer labs are instrumental in helping students learn, work with software programs,
complete assignments and interact with their instructors.
 Most importantly, these IT labs enable learners to acquire digital skills critical in the
modern workplace without having to purchase their own hardware and software.

2.2 Specific objectives

This paper discusses the problems that an outdated, inefficient, and uncomfortable computer lab
presents to both students and faculty.

The results of the study will offer suggestions to Mattu university Mechanical engineering
( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management) computer laboratories to improve the standard
of computer labs.

3 Delimitation
A researcher explained the significance of the study to the participants. This increased the
participation of respondents to the study. Moreover, the study should have to use interview
methods of data. Furthermore, the purpose statement of the study was to fill the gap on the
computer attitudes and the extent of usage among teachers and students of Mattu university
Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management) computer laboratories
to improve the standard of computer labs.

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4 Literature Review
The major method for providing students with access to technology is through computer
laboratories, which are an important component of a university's technological offerings. Nearly
all of the students at the school may use computer labs at some point during their time there
(Whitaker, 2008). Often, a student will use a paid Internet search as their main source for an
assignment. Instead of using more dependable sites of access like libraries, people tend to use
engines or general online surfing databases or the homepage of their library (Thompson, 2003).
In fact, nearly 75% of college students report that they use the Internet more frequently than they
do the library. However, using the Internet does not always have a detrimental impact on
students' work. According to one poll, 79% of college students agree or strongly agree that using
the Internet has improved their academic performance (Jones, 2002).

Wired, mobile or wireless, and virtual computer labs are only a few of the several types of
computer labs that are available, according to Bruce Pohlmann (2011). A wired lab is a physical
area on the campus of a college or university that offers computer services to students, staff, and
teachers. This is the model that colleges and universities use the most frequently. Typically cart-
based and mobile, a wireless lab can be set up anywhere on campus. Through the Internet, virtual
computer laboratories enable remote computer access. In data centers, where technology has
helped to consolidate computers and more effectively dynamically manage current resources,
virtualization has already been widely implemented (Xia, 2011).

The success of students depends on a functional and accessible computer lab. Students use
computer laboratories for homework, research, and other schoolwork. For the institution to
receive the proper services, lab technicians must make sure that computers and networks are
updated.

The physical layout and atmosphere of a lab play a crucial role in generating a conducive setting
for professors and students to work on tasks. The classroom, U shape, and pod are the three types
of physical computer labs that are most frequently used. In general there are many problems in
Mattu university Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management)
computer laboratories most computer are locked with unknown pass word, some are need
maintenance, some are out-of-date software and hardware, uncomfortable arrangement, some of
keyboard / Mouse not operating.
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This paper generate Along with a monitoring tool set, there are also preventive maintenance
steps you can take to ensure server uptime and health.

Ensure optimal environment temperature; Servers need proper ventilation and temperature

control to avoid overheating. Check for dirt and dust buildup on both interior and exterior
surfaces and adjust temperature settings as needed.
Conduct routine maintenance; Hardware issues tend to be the most difficult to predict and
prevent because they can happen at random. Pay attention to the age of each server, perform
routine disk checks and regularly update/upgrade the system. When the time comes, replace
outdated parts or the machine altogether. Predictive analytics can also help identify when parts
might fail.
Regularly install updates. Install software, OS updates and patches on a regular basis. This
keeps performance up and protects servers from easily exploitable software vulnerabilities.
Maintain strict access control and detailed event logs. Human error is nearly impossible to
eliminate. Automation can minimize human error, but human intervention is still required. To
lower risk, maintain strict records of who can access the server room and management software.
You should also keep detailed event logs and review them on a regular basis.
Develop a server contingency plan. Redundancy is a big component to prevent downtime from
server failure. A server contingency plan should establish available secondary hardware such as
multiple power sources, redundant RAM and backup servers.
Design a disaster and data recovery plan. In the event of a natural disaster or security breach,
a disaster recovery plan and a data recovery plan will save you from long periods of downtime
and catastrophic data loss. Having a backup plan is essential for the worst-case scenarios

5 Statement of the Problem

Computer labs are crucial for assisting instructors and students in achieving their objectives.
Lack of resources will prevent instructors and students from reaching their full potential. Mattu
university Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management) computer
laboratories frequently experience the following issues: most computer are locked with unknown
pass word, some are need maintenance, some are out-of-date software and hardware,
uncomfortable arrangement, some of keyboard / Mouse not operating and a lack of adequate tool

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The study was guided by the following basic questions:

1. To what extent computer laboratory utilize Mattu university Mechanical engineering

Department ( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management)?

2. What are the challenges in using proper ways of computer lab among utilized Mattu university
Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management)?

3. What opportunities are available for students?

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6 Methodology
The methodology section is the most critical section of the research protocol. The primary
purpose of this study is conducting Mattu university Mechanical engineering ( M.Sc Industrial
Engineering and management). data collection uses observation methods and semi-structural
interviews. The Mattu university M.Sc Industrial Engineering and management department
facilities reviewed were observed in this study, pedestrian walkways, entrances of computer
laboratory rooms, layout of tables and chairs, area of computer laboratory rooms, interior lines,
accessibility of network , failure of keyboard, uncomfortable arrangement, some are out-of-date
software, lighting and computer laboratory room temperature.

Review of Construction of
Literature Hypothetical model Interpretation and
Hypothesis
conclusion
BUILDING

Analysis of
Analysis Literature Quantitative and
data Validation of findings
and research questions Qualitative analysis
against prior research
of data

Collection of
data Conducting
interviews and
surveys

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7 Expected outcome
At the end of the research the following outcome are reached;

 Effective computer for each students

 Maintained and correct arrangement of all material.
 All computer in the laboratory are useful.

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8 Schedule
The project timetable establishes the structure for the project, guiding when you enter each
phase. Therefore in this research the time to perform each process are follows as on the table
below.
Activities Week Week Week Week Week Week Week
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
1 Writing proposal and
Review of Literature

2 Analysis Literature and

research questions

3 Conducting interviews
and surveys

4 Quantitative and
Qualitative analysis of
data

5 Construction of
Hypothetical model

6 Validation of findings
against prior
7 Interpretation and
conclusion

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Conclusion
The results of this study show that technology-based teaching and learning is more effective in
compare to traditional classroom. This is because, using ICT tools and equipment will prepare an
active learning environment that is more interesting and effective for both teachers and students.
The goal of this study was to assess the viability and usefulness of computer labs and its impact
on the success of students and faculty. Many feel that resources are outdated and lack the timely
and expert support needed for proper maintenance. In addition to hardware and software
upgrades, qualified, and certified technicians are essential to diagnose and fix daily issues as well
as more complex problems in a timely manner. Significant improvements will be necessary to
ensure our students and faculty have access to the adequate resources to meet their academic and
professional needs and goals.

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References

1. Bialo, E. R., & Sivin-Kachala, J. The effectiveness of technology in schools: A summary

of recent research. SMLQ, 1996; 25(1).
2. Cash, C. S. Building condition and student achievement and behavior. Unpublished
doctoral dissertation, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University., 1993.
3. Chan, T. C. Environmental impact on student learning. Valdosta, Ga.: Valdosta State
University, 1996. 4. Davis, S. Improvement of student computer lab for the Department
of Epidem., 2004. Retrieved from https://techfee.washington.edu/proposals/2001-335-1/
4. Doe, C. G. A LOOK AT ... Building the perfect computer lab. Retrieved from., 2005.
http://internetatschools.com/Articles/Editorial/Features/A-LOOK-AT-...-Building-
thePerfect-computer-Lab-58619.aspx
5. Garger, J. The four best computer laboratory layouts for schools. Retrieved from, 2011.
http://www.brighthub.com/computing/hardware/articles/52714.aspx
6. Hawkins, B. L., & Oblinger, D. The myth about the need for public computer labs.
Educause Review, 2007; 42(5). Retrieved from
http://er.educause.edu/articles/2007/8/themyth-about-the-need-for-public-computer-labs
7. Hertz, M. B. The pros and cons of computer labs. 2013. Retrieved from
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/pros-cons-computer-labs-mary-beth-hertz
8. Pohlmann, B.Computer labs in schools. Retrieved from Learning spaces., 2011.

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