An educational setup for nonlinear control systems: Enhancing the motivation and learning in a targeted curriculum by experimental practices [Focus on Education]

As technology is evolving rapidly, the consumers of education systems, namely students, are exposed to more visual and audio media. Advertisements, computer games, movies, and all types of digital media are doing their best to attract young people´s attention using the latest technologies. The question of whether or not this situation is beneficial for students is not discussed here. However, it is of vital importance to recognize the challenge that this situation poses for teachers. It is a tough job to attract the attention of students, especially at the undergraduate level, to a technical subject and motivate learning within a limited time. The control courses should also be logical, practical, up to date, and insightful. These objectives are best achieved with the aid of in-class experiments, laboratory practice, and newly emerging advances in technology.