Best Paper Award for Tobias Baumeister, Paul Hofmann and Lea Klein
Tobias Baumeister and his supervised students, Paul Hofmann and Lea Klein, from the Chair of Computer Architecture received the Best Paper Award at the EAI CSECS 2025 Conference for their paper „Block-Based Learning: A Gamified Simulator for GPU Programming Education.“
The paper presents µGPUSim, a block-based, gamified GPU simulator designed to facilitate GPU programming education. The simulator addresses the unique challenges of teaching GPU architecture and programming concepts in higher education by employing a simplified architecture and visual programming approach that eliminates syntax barriers while providing immediate visual feedback.
Built using the Godot game engine, µGPUSim incorporates gamification elements including achievement badges, star ratings, and persistent progress tracking. The evaluation across multiple student cohorts in computer architecture courses at FAU demonstrated high acceptance rates and significantly improved motivation among students, with the gamified elements substantially contributing to their learning experience.
The simulator is currently being used in our „Grundlagen der Rechnerarchitektur“ course and is part of a series of educational tools that Tobias has been leading the development of to support student learning in computer architecture. Under his direction, this initiative explores how visual, gamified simulators can make complex topics more accessible and engaging for students. His research focuses on understanding how these tools affect learning outcomes and student motivation.
We are particularly pleased that this collaborative project between a PhD student and bachelor students has been recognized by the international community. The positive feedback from students using µGPUSim in our courses motivates us to continue developing innovative teaching methods that help students better understand GPU programming concepts.
For more information about µGPUSim, our research in computer architecture education, or potential collaborations, please feel free to contact Tobias Baumeister at tobias.baumeister@fau.de