Abstract
The authors present the Effective Solution Based Learning, which derives from Project-Based Learning but is applied to real problems in order to build effective solutions. Emphasis is placed on the effectiveness on the assumption that encourages greater involvement and commitment on the part of students, ensuring a context that is intended to be more attractive and close to what will be their professional reality. Effectiveness is measured by the functionalities considered essential for solving the problem, but also the viability of the solution to be effectively used after the end of development, without the need for continued student involvement. A brief summary of the methodology is presented in the paper, emphasizing, in particular, the criteria and requirements for choosing project themes. The results of the first year of evaluation are also presented in the paper, pointing to a clear reduction in dropouts and an increase in approved students. Considering that this is achieved with more demand and work, it is arguable that it also resulted in students with more knowledge and skills. The authors also include in this paper the results of a survey done to the students, after the project conclusion, to assess the students’ perspective on this methodology. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.

Abstract
This paper presents a simulation model of a Time of Flight distance sensor applying SimTwo robotics simulator in order to contribute to a mobile robotics application, in an educational context. The objective is to observe the sensor behavior, inside the simulation environment, face a set of experiments, such as an abrupt difference of distance, several angle inclinations and measurements to the maximum sensor range. The tests were performed using SimTwo being a high performance, open source, versatile, real time simulation environment, in which is possible to configure an specific sensor adding its features, which allows to achieve a realistic simulation. The results represented the expected sensor behavior for the proposed scenarios. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2024.

Abstract
Our contemporary society necessitates professionals equipped with 21st-century skills. Disciplines within Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (known as STEAM) have been particularly effective in fostering these skills. However, when considering students with disabilities, especially those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD), this assertion often falls short. In this context, the RoboSTEAMSEN project emerges as an initiative designed to enhance educational processes by providing teachers of IDD students with the necessary resources to promote STEAM engagement. The project proposes the use of active learning methodologies and robotics to achieve this goal. The primary objective of the project is realized through several strategies: understanding the needs of students with disabilities and adapting the use of robotics and active learning methodologies accordingly; training teachers in the use of these resources; and creating a platform to exchange experiences, resources, lessons learned, tools, case scenarios, etc., while reaching other potential stakeholders such as caregivers and policymakers. The main outcomes of the project are teacher training programs and the development of associated competencies, tools to identify and classify resources for the students, and technological platforms to ensure the sustainability of the project once it concludes.

Abstract
This article presents the prototyping of an educational manipulator robot, based on the EEZYbotARM Mk2 robot, tailored for first-year master's students in the field of robotics. The project encompasses the assembly of the robot arm, computation of both forward and inverse kinematics, and analysis of two path-planning movement algorithms. These features are consolidated into an Arduino library to streamline the process for students to generate instructions for the robot. The EEZYbotARM Mk2 features a three-degree-of-freedom revolute arm with a gripper that remains parallel to its base at all times, enhancing its suitability for educational applications such as pick-and-place tasks. The article provides detailed descriptions of the materials and methods employed, along with proposed challenges for student engagement.

Abstract
In this paper it is presented a Hardware-in-theloop (HIL) mobile robot programming approach, to be applied in a robotics educational context. The motivation to apply this approach is the fact that students can program the robots without access to the robot hardware, but still maintain some important closed loop control critical features, such as a realistic lag time and the possibility for a larger number of students to program at the same time. Therefore, the developed software is applied to the real hardware without any change. The HIL approach was applied to provide a simulation close to reality, once the processing occurs in the real robot processor and the actuation and sensorization inside the simulation, adding to the advantage to test the firmware avoiding damage in the physical robot.

Abstract
Welding is a challenging, risky, and time-consuming profession. Recently, there has been a documented shortage of trained welders, and as a result, the market is pushing for an increase in the rate at which new professionals are trained. To address this growing demand, training institutions are exploring alternative methods to train future professionals. The emergence of virtual reality technologies has led to initiatives to explore their potential for welding training. Multiple studies have suggested that virtual reality training delivers comparable, or even superior, results when compared to more conventional approaches, with shorter training times and reduced costs in consumables. This paper conducts a comprehensive review of the current state of the field of welding simulators. This involves exploring the different types of welding simulators available and evaluating their effectiveness and efficiency in meeting the learning objectives of welding training. The aim is to identify gaps in the literature, suggest future research directions, and promote the development of more effective and efficient welding simulators in the future. The research also seeks to develop a categorical system for evaluating and comparing welding simulators. This system will enable a more systematic and objective analysis of the features and characteristics of each simulator, identifying the essential characteristics that should be included in each level of classification.