Demystifying neural networks : a stage-based learning approach for novice students

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El Gemayel, Joseph and Kydd, Marc; McNeill, Fiona and Alexandru, Cristina and Sentance, Sue and Cutts, Quintin, eds. (2025) Demystifying neural networks : a stage-based learning approach for novice students. In: UKICER '25. Association for Computing Machinery, GBR. ISBN 9798400720789 (https://doi.org/10.1145/3754508.3754528)

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Abstract

Understanding Neural Networks can be overwhelming for novices due to the abstract and jargon-heavy nature of the subject. This poster presents a stage-based, interactive learning environment (ILE) designed to simplify key Neural Network concepts through hands-on experimentation and visual feedback. The ILE guides learners from foundational concepts such as neurons and activation functions, through to how these elements interact with more developed concepts such as multi-layer networks and propagation. By adjusting parameters in real time, students can directly observe how changes affect network behaviour and performance. The ILE aims to enhance conceptual understanding, increase engagement, and lower barriers to entry in AI education, offering a practical solution to common challenges in computing education.

ORCID iDs

El Gemayel, Joseph ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-4518-3071 and Kydd, Marc; McNeill, Fiona, Alexandru, Cristina, Sentance, Sue and Cutts, Quintin
CORE (COnnecting REpositories)