Integrating Cisco Packet Tracer with Moodle platform: Support for teaching and automatic evaluation

Abstract

In the context of the new technologies and applications of Future Internet, computer networks skills are greatly valued and an increased number of qualified specialists is required. Cisco Networking Academy, the world's largest classroom and a major player in the communication network area, offers its students a powerful network simulator - Packet Tracer. Instructor and students can practice, test and validate their skills. Combining Packet Tracer's features with Moodle platform provides a powerful e-learning mechanism. The novel developed module - PTActivity, has the ability to further enhance the networking teaching and learning experience. To our knowledge, no module that integrates Packet Tracer with Moodle platform exists.