Abstract
As RISC-V platforms become a target for real-time systems it is crucial to ensure and effect performance analysis to make sure that these systems meet the respective time constraints while also perform reliably. To achieve these goals, performance monitoring becomes a critical aspect, especially when considering resource-constrained environments where efficient resource usage is required. This paper focuses on the study and development of a solution to simplify the interaction with machine-level privileged counters and registers, considering two essential non-functional requirements (NFRs): low-overhead access to performance metrics and low memory API usage. The provided solution allows developers to retrieve and analyse performance data directly from user-level space with a simplified interface, while providing feedback for application optimization, isolation, and improved system reliability. The demonstrated results showcase how our approach meets the two NFRs and its potential in terms of customization for the target platform.

Abstract
Games with purposes beyond entertainment, the so-called serious games, have been useful tools in professional training, especially in engaging participants. However, their evaluation and, also, their adaptable characteristics to different scenarios, audiences and contexts remain challenges. This paper examines the application of serious games in professional training, their results and adaptable ways to achieve certain goals. Using the Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, a framework was built to develop and evaluate serious games to improve user experience, learning outcomes, knowledge transfer to work situations, and the application of the skills practised in the game in real professional settings. At this stage, the investigation presents a framework regarding the triangulation of data collected from a systematic literature review, focus groups and interviews. Following the DSR methodology, the next steps of this investigation, listed at the end of the paper, are the demonstration of the framework in serious game development and the evaluation and validation of this artefact.

Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) is a powerful tool for industrial training due to its capacity to simulate realistic, risk-free environments. However, creating VR training scenarios often requires significant technical expertise and large investments, limiting the technology's adoption. This paper presents a VR training platform that empowers trainers to author, test, and deliver immersive training procedures directly within a VR environment without writing code. It also gives trainees a place to practice and learn without consequences. A key feature is the integration of Virtual Choreographies, enabling trainers to define ordered procedures, record trainee attempts, more easily understand their actions, and automatically assess performance. A user study was conducted to evaluate usability, workflow clarity, and feature effectiveness. Results indicate strong usability and comprehension for non-expert users, and confirm the potential of Virtual Choreographies to guide and evaluate procedural training. The platform represents a step toward creating accessible, customizable VR training for industrial and educational settings. © 2025 IEEE.

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Abstract
Mutation testing is an effective testing technique for improving how well a test suite can detect small changes to a program under test. This testing technique is seeing increased industry adoption. This paper aims to study the use of mutation testing in an educational setting and understand students' technical and conceptual challenges in applying mutation testing concepts. We report on two case studies of incorporating mutation testing into software engineering curricula. The Scaffolding Study explores the impact of using different mutation analysis tools directly or indirectly via a uniform interface provided by an educational infrastructure. We observe that scaffolding (indirect tool use) improved the consistency of student performance for those using the same mutation analysis tool on the same code as well as helping students perform more effective mutation testing. The Visualization Study explores the impact of different forms of output of a mutation analysis tool. Specifically, it assesses to what extent visualizations support students in reasoning about mutants and writing tests to detect them. We observe that like scaffolding, visualizations helped students perform more effective mutation testing, with lower-performing students seeing a boost in particular. We further explore challenges around automatic assessment of mutation testing exercises. For example, we observe that even with assignment scaffolding, 18-21% of student submissions required manual modifications to successfully execute.