Virtual Simulations Tool for Operating Systems: Advancing E-Learning in Computing Education
Authors: Wadmare Jyoti , Kolte Dakshita , Bhatia Kapil , Desai Palak , Wadmare Ganesh 
Published: December 2024

Aim/Purpose: This paper highlights an innovative and impactful online operating system algorithms e-learning tool in engineering education.

Background: Common teaching methodologies make it difficult to teach complex algorithms of operating systems. This paper presents a solution to this problem by providing simulations of different complex algorithms to enable students to visualize and perform hands-on experiments. Developing these simulations offered different hurdles, which included step-by-step precise computations, managing edge circumstances, creation of dynamic representations like Gantt charts and disk scheduling graphs, strong input validation, user-friendly customization, and real-time performance. The developed simulations also observed some limitations, like the Process Scheduling simulator, which can be improved from the aspect of context switching overheads. Disk Scheduling simulators can include different evaluation parameters, such as fairness and starvation avoidance. Banker’s Algorithm can address circumstances such as invalid resource requests, resource deadlock, and resource exhaustion to model real-world system behavior.

Methodology: The study focuses on the development of an e-learning tool that consists of the simulation of 13 different operating system algorithms, such as Process Scheduling, Disk Scheduling, and Banker’s Algorithm.

Contribution: This paper contributes to the body of knowledge by providing an innovative educational tool that bridges the gap between theory and practice in operating system algorithms, thus enhancing student engagement and understanding.

Findings: The findings of the work comprise the analysis of 276 student feedbacks demonstrating a significant favorable influence on students’ learning and engagement with operating system algorithms through the use of the built-in e-learning tool.

Recommendations for Practitioners: It is advised that educators integrate this e-learning tool into their curriculum to boost student understanding and engagement in operating system courses.

Recommendation for Researchers: Future studies should aim to broaden the range of algorithms contained in the tool and analyze its potential for applicability in other areas of computer science education.

Impact on Society: Operating system algorithms have a profound societal impact by enabling the development of efficient, reliable, and secure software systems that power everything from personal devices to critical infrastructure. Through engineering education, students learn these foundational principles, allowing them to innovate and create software solutions that enhance productivity, security, and connectivity in daily life. This knowledge contributes to the advancement of technology, fostering societal progress in areas like healthcare, communication, and automation while promoting digital security and accessibility.

Future Research: Future research should focus on the development of different e-learning tools for different disciplines of engineering education and evaluate their efficiency in different ways of learning.