A web-based educational environment for teaching the computer cache memory

In this paper, a Web-based educational setting for teaching the computer cache memory is presented, aiming at supporting and enhancing the learning process and promoting the active and constructive involvement of students. The educational setting includes Web text-based educational material, a Web-based cache memory simulation program, and educational activities that enable the students to participate actively in the learning process and to collaborate in groups. The design of the educational setting was based on the principles derived from the conceptual change approach regarding the students´ theory framework, the students learning difficulties/misconceptions, the text comprehension theory, and contemporary teaching approaches. The results obtained from the application/evaluation of a set of educational activities have been encouraging, indicating that the simulation program and the context of the activities can effectively support and enhance the learning process.