Active Learning of Distributed Cloud Architectures Through Multi-Modal Gaming

Overview

This project (2026–2027) develops a multi-modal educational tool — physical “component dice” combined with a companion mobile app — to help university students actively learn distributed systems and cloud architecture design patterns, in an interdisciplinary collaboration between the Centro de Visión y Robótica (CVR) and the Facultad de Arte, Diseño y Comunicación Audiovisual at ESPOL.

Problem Statement

Distributed systems and cloud architecture design patterns are hard for university students to internalize through purely theoretical instruction; a hands-on, multi-modal approach aims to improve retention and problem-solving ability.

My Contribution

As Co-Director, I contribute to leading the project — helping define its educational goals and the design of the physical and digital multi-modal tool, along with its planned classroom evaluation.

Results & Impact

The project is in its design and prototyping phase: a themed set of dice representing critical cloud components (load balancers, NoSQL databases, message queues, storage services) with standardized iconography, alongside a companion mobile app that validates the architectures students build in real time. Its pedagogical impact will be evaluated through classroom experimentation sessions with student groups.