Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) of Karnaugh map

Abstract

This project serves to provide an alternative platform for users dealing with Karnaugh Map (K-Map) by developing a Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) software program of K-Map in order to assist users in strengthening solving abilities and concepts of K-Map. This platform was developed specifically to improve the traditional learning methods by incorporating and utilising current technology.

The program was developed using Java programming language on NetBeans Integrated Development Environment (IDE) while making use of Swing (Java) to create the graphical user interface (GUI). The program is capable of operating in two modes, generating random Boolean algebraic functions of up to 4-variables, inclusive of Don’t Care (DC) terms, for the user to solve as well as allowing the user to input specific Boolean algebraic functions. The program utilises McCluskey method and Petrick’s method to compute all simplified solutions for all functions and can be expressed in either Sum-of-Product (SOP) or Product-of-Sum (POS) forms. The program evaluates the user in three key areas namely Grouping of Terms, Algebraic Expression and PI / EPI Identification. The solution in all three areas are also provided by the program in the event that the user is unable to solve the Boolean algebraic function.

This report documents the design and development as well as the implementation process of the program. Explicit testing of the programs are presented, following which recommendation for future works are suggested.