Digital Shadow as a Didactic Resource for Control Engineering

This paper discusses the impact of using a Digital Shadow (DS) as a didactic tool in control engineering courses, considering different areas of specialization (mechatronics, robotics, and chemistry). The DS has been developed and sponsored by the Brazilian EdTech Algetec+. To evaluate the impact of this emerging technology an acceptance technology model (TAM) instrument was applied. Statistical results show that perceived usefulness (PU) has the highest rated construct according to the TAM. The developed DS has a high acceptance level in perceptions of the effectiveness in control engineering courses, and this level does not depend on the major curricula and gender. Finally, collaboration between industry and educational institutions made this research possible.