IoT capacity building in Bolivia: learnings from a flipped and hands-on short course on LoRaWAN

Abstract

The Internet of Things is the current paradigm allowing massive data from physical devices to be gathered using sensors. The collected information can be sent over the Internet and become useful input for decision making. This paper reports a first experience teaching LoRaWAN technology in the frame of an IoT short course in the Radiocommunications Laboratory at Universidad Privada Boliviana (UPB), developed in response to recent spectrum regulations in Bolivia. The course is based on a hybrid methodology, theoretical concepts were developed through off line video-based lectures and in-person sessions were focused on instructor-led hands-on laboratories helping to improve the learning experience of the students. A Likert scale satisfaction survey is used to evaluate participants' perceptions of the learning process. This paper offers insights into designing introductory LoRaWAN courses, particularly for instructors aiming to teach IoT concepts through practical applications using off-the-shelf devices and a TTN-based server.