2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Enhancing Embedded Systems Competency Through Curriculum-Level Implementation of METs

Presented at Electrical and Computer Engineering Division (ECE) Technical Session 6

Traditional embedded systems education often emphasizes theory over practice, resulting in gaps in student engagement, long-term competency, and the ability to apply knowledge across the curriculum. This study conducted at [University] investigates the curriculum-level implementation of Modular Embedded Tools (METs), a project-based instructional framework guided by Motivation Theory, Project-Based Learning (PBL), and Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK). Building on prior course-level studies, this work examines outcomes from senior-level engineering students who experienced MET-based instruction throughout their undergraduate program.
Results indicate significant improvements in both motivational boosters (self-belief, persistence, and learning focus) and reductions in motivational guzzlers (avoidance and self-sabotage) when compared to baseline data from traditional coursework. Competency scores in digital systems, analog circuits, and embedded programming increased by approximately 120% relative to baseline performance, confirming that MET-based learning fosters deeper knowledge retention and independent problem-solving ability. Senior-level outcomes also closely mirrored the gains observed in earlier course-level implementations, demonstrating strong knowledge retention across academic years.
These findings suggest that MET-based learning not only enhances immediate course outcomes but also supports enhanced competency throughout the engineering curriculum. This work contributes an instructional model that bridges theory and practice, strengthens student motivation, and prepares graduates with the embedded systems skills demanded by industry.

Authors

Prof. Francis G. Pellicano http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5647-442X University of New Haven [biography]

Francis G. Pellicano is a Ph.D. candidate in Engineering and Applied Science at the University of New Haven, where his research focuses on enhancing embedded systems education through Modular Embedded Tools (METs)—a hardware-first, project-based framework that bridges theory and practice. His work integrates Motivation Theory, Project-Based Learning, and Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge to improve student engagement and competency across the engineering curriculum. Before his doctoral studies, Francis developed hands-on lab materials in digital and analog design and continues to promote low-friction, hardware-based learning experiences that connect classroom instruction to real-world engineering applications.
Dr. Christopher Martinez University of New Haven [biography]

Christopher Martinez is an associate professor of computer engineering in the Connecticut Institute of Technology at the University of New Haven. His area of research is in the field of human computer interaction with a focus on embedded system interfacing.
Dr. Maria-Isabel Carnasciali http://orcid.org/https://0000-0001-5887-0744 Merrimack College [biography]

Maria-Isabel Carnasciali is the Academic Dean of Engineering in the School of Engineering and Computational Sciences at Merrimack College (MA). She took on this role after serving as the Associate Dean for Research. Previously, she spent 13 years at the University of New Haven (CT), where her last role included four years as Assistant Provost for Academic Assessment and Faculty Development. She is Professor of Mechanical Engineering and enjoys teaching thermo/fluids/energy and design-related courses. Her work also includes integrating entrepreneurial mindset into engineering education and leading faculty development efforts through KEEN's Engineering Unleashed.

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