El-Kebir, Hamza (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), Ornik, Melkior (Univ. of Illinois Urbana-Champaign), Bentsman, Joseph (Univ. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign)

Empowering Control Engineering Students through Theory, Implementation, and AI-Assisted Learning: Evaluating a Project-Based Advanced Computer Control Course

Scheduled for presentation during the Regular Session "Challenges for Control Engineering Curricula" (FrAT1), Friday, June 20, 2025, 10:00−10:10, Room F09

14th IFAC Symposium on Advances in Control Education, June 17-21, 2025, Budapest, Hungary

This information is tentative and subject to change. Compiled on June 20, 2025

Abstract

This study describes the pedagogical impact of a project-based Advanced Computer Control course that combines theoretical rigor with hands-on algorithm implementation in Python, MATLAB, and C++. We have conducted a post-course survey assessing students' understanding of control theory, practical coding skills, and exposure to advanced techniques such as reinforcement learning and robust control. This survey also explores the role of generative AI tools like ChatGPT in learning and implementation, including their ethical implications and future potential. The findings provide insights into the effectiveness of this unique approach in the context of this course installment, highlighting its ability to empower students and prepare them for real-world control challenges in academia and industry.