2026 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Enhancing Linux Education for Entry-Level College Students: A Pilot Study

Presented at Engineering Technology Division (ETD) Technical Session 4

To enhance student learning outcomes and engagement, a redesigned Operating Systems course is being piloted to better cater to the needs of first-time learners. Unlike CompTIA Linux+, which presumes prior technical knowledge, the LPI Linux Essentials certification (LPI 010-160) does not require prerequisites, making it more accessible to students with limited operating system experience. By integrating LPI Linux Essentials with Windows 11 course material, students can establish a robust and practical foundation in knowledge.
This Operating systems course is primarily taken by freshman students, and the integration of the UCertify platform has made significant improvements. According to Lewis, “first-generation students often have barriers related to their ability to adjust to college due to a college readiness deficiency. They encounter more significant challenges than continuing-generation college students (CGCS)” (Lewis, 2022). According to Josiah,” There is extreme pressure on post-secondary institutions to redesign policies and practices to align with the institution’s goals. Colleges are expected to be more
accountable by creating a ‘student-ready’ culture and environment” (Josiah, 2024).

The pilot also utilizes uCertify, an integrated e-learning platform that provides LPI Linux Essentials and Windows 11 content alongside test preparation, simulations, and virtual labs. Through cloud-based labs and sandbox environments, students gain valuable hands-on practice applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Initial pilots utilizing LPI Linux Essentials were conducted in the May 2024 and July 2024 sessions.

Periodic assessment and review play a major role in continuous improvement. According to Espirito, “Continuous improvement is necessary to provide excellent first-year experience to make students feel they belong in college and the profession” (Dr. Doris J. Espiritu, 2024). To assess the impact, we analyzed program outcomes, pass rates, persistence, and withdrawal rates for students enrolled in the undergraduate certificate program in Information Technology Essentials (UC_ITE), Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology and Networking (AITN) and Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Networking (BITN) programs between May 2024 to May 2025.
Additionally, we compared help desk ticket volumes and course outcomes before and after the implementation of the course. The results indicated a reduction in IT tickets submitted by both students and faculty, along with positive trends in student success measures for sections utilizing Linux Essentials with immersive uCertify technology compared to the traditional CompTIA Linux+ course.
These findings suggest that aligning foundational operating systems instruction with beginner-friendly certification pathways, supported by immersive technology, can mitigate student barriers, enhance confidence, and improve overall outcomes in IT education.

Authors

Dr. Simon Obeid DeVry University, Orlando [biography]

Dr. Simon Obeid earned his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of North Carolina in 2008, where he also completed a Master of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering and a Graduate Certificate in Information Security.
An active member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) since 2003, Dr. Obeid served as Vice Chair and later as Chair of the IEEE Computer Society, DeVry Charlotte Chapter (2009–2012). He has been an ABET Program Evaluator since 2015, supporting continuous improvement and accreditation efforts for engineering and technology programs across the nation.
Dr. Obeid’s research and teaching interests include Information Security, Artificial Intelligence, and innovations in Engineering Education. A widely published researcher, he has presented at numerous regional and national conferences and frequently serves as a reviewer, mentor, and guest speaker.
Dedicated to advancing hands-on, student-centered learning, Dr. Obeid continues to promote excellence in engineering education through collaboration, applied research, and industry engagement.
Dr. Navaratnam Suganthan DeVry University [biography]

Dr. Suganthan is a licensed Professional Engineer currently serving as the Assistant Dean of Colleges and Curriculum for the College of Engineering and Information Sciences at DeVry University. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University, as well as a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership with a focus on Higher Education from Argosy University.
With over 15 years of experience in various administrative roles, Dr. Suganthan has significantly contributed to academia as the Associate Dean for the College of Engineering & Information Sciences and Media Arts and Technology, Dean of Academic Affairs, Dean of Technology Programs, Dean of Electronics Programs, and Campus Dean. In addition to his administrative responsibilities, he has over 25 years of teaching experience in electronics and mathematics at both DeVry University and Texas A&M University.
In the professional arena, Dr. Suganthan is an ABET-IEEE Program Evaluator and has practical experience as an Electrical Engineer at Renco Design Ltd. and as a Test Engineer at Valmet Automation. His professional affiliations include membership in the Eta Kappa Nu (HKN, the National Honor Society for Electrical Engineers), the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers (PSPE), the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE), and Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). He is also a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

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