Joaquim Vieira
Master's Of Engineering
Bloemfontein,Free State
Summary
ABOUT ME: I am a dedicated academic and lecturer with a strong commitment to cultivating critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in computer science and engineering students. Since joining the University of the Free State in 2021, I have taught multiple first-year modules, including Computer Literacy (CSIL1561, CSIL1521) and Programming and Problem-Solving (CSIS1614, CSIS1624). During this time, I successfully redesigned and modernized the delivery of these courses, implementing structured and interactive teaching methods that significantly enhanced student engagement, comprehension, and overall academic performance.
Recognizing the need for accessible and dynamic teaching methods, I developed a structured learning framework that blends theory, live coding demonstrations, and scenario-based problem-solving exercises. This approach; branded as Meaty Mondays, Code with Me Wednesdays, and Scenario Thursdays, has transformed how foundational programming is taught, making it both interactive and approachable for students with diverse learning needs.
In addition to modernizing the curriculum and creating visually engaging slides aligned with prescribed textbooks, I introduced recorded lectures to support asynchronous learning. These enhancements contributed to a significant improvement in module pass rates, increasing from approximately 50% to over 70%, with average marks exceeding 65%.
Beyond lecturing, I hold a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering with research experience in artificial intelligence, computer vision, and image processing. My academic philosophy centers on equipping students not only with technical competence but also with the confidence and curiosity to innovate and excel in their academic and future professional pursuits.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
3
3
Languages
Work History
Lecturer, Computer Science
University Of The Free State
Bloemfontein
08.2021 - Current
- Modules Taught: CSIL1561, CSIL1521, CSIS1614, CSIS1624
Key Achievements & Contributions:
Began lecturing in 2021, successfully leading first-year computer literacy modules with strong positive pass rates.
In 2023, took over CSIS1614 and CSIS1624 and redesigned the module delivery to significantly improve student engagement and understanding. - Developed structured learning weeks:
Meaty Mondays: Delivered the majority of theory content, supported by custom-created slides based on prescribed textbooks.
Code with Me Wednesdays: Live coding sessions where students followed along to build practical skills.
Scenario Thursdays: Problem-solving exercises where students attempted solutions before reviewing the lecturer’s solution in preparation for practicals. - Recorded all classes to provide on-demand rewatchable lessons, enhancing accessibility for all students.
- These changes raised the pass rate from ~50% to over 70%, with an average mark above 65% for both modules.
Assistant Lecturer: Programming I and II
Central University Of Technology
Bloemfontein
01.2021 - 08.2021
I assisted Mr. Bothma with facilitating and the instruction of practical classes for Programming I and Programming II for first-year students, both face to face and online.
Laboratory Technician
Central University Of Technology
01.2019 - 08.2021
- The maintenance of all computer labs in the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology.
- Creation of images for massive deployment over multiple computers.
- The diagnosing and troubleshooting of errors and network issues within labs, as well as for the staff of the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and Information Technology.
Research and Development Engineer
Central University Of Technology
01.2017 - 08.2021
- Conducting research and development within engineering fields such as, but not limited to, image processing, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and the Internet of Things, with the aim of publishing academic papers at various conferences and journals.
- Consultation: Consult and assist with the development of new projects within the industry.
- Mentorship and guidance of students completing their practical work experience as apprentices within the RGEMS research laboratory.
Education
Masters of Engineering - Electrical Engineering
Central University of Technology
Bloemfontein, South Africa 04.2001 -
Baccalaureus Technologiae: Electrical Engineering - Electrical Engineering
Central University of Technology
Bloemfontein 04.2001 -
Diploma: Computer Systems Engineering - Information And Computer Systems
Central University of Technology
Bloemfontein 04.2001 -
National Senior Certificate -
Grey College
Bloemfontein, South Africa 04.2001 -
Skills
Lecturing
Image Processing
Machine Learning
C, C# And C
Matlab
NI Labview
Automation And Robotics
Microsoft Office
Classroom management
Problem-solving
Excellent communication
Tutoring and mentoring
Digital literacy instruction
Content generation
Student engagement
Certification
LEARNING CLINICAL SAS PROGRAMING WITH REAL-TIME EXAMPLES – UDEMY
Community Projects
2018 -2019: STUDENT MENTOR AT VARIOPUS SCHOOLS – ESKOM EXPO
- Mentored primary school students in their participation in the Eskom EXPO for Young Scientists national competition
2018 -2019: JUDGE FOR THE FREE STATE ESKOM EXPO FOR YOUNG SCIENTESTS – ESKOM EXPO
- Judged the various projects submitted by students from all around the Free State.
Personal Skills
- Hard Working
- Fast Learner
- Self Driven
- Problem Solver
- Reliable And Loyal
- Self Motivated
- Taking Initiative
- Efficient At Time Management
- Team Player
- Listener
- Good Communicator, Both Oral And Written
- Compassionate
- Patient
Interests
- Programming
- Problem-solving
- Astronomy
- Assembly and fine-tuning of desktop computers
- Day traiding
- Reading
- Gaming
- Walking/Hiking
- Locksport(Lock picking)
Hobbies
- Programming
- Problem-solving
- Astronomy
- Assembly and fine-tuning of desktop computers
- Reading
- Gaming
- Walking/Hiking
- Locksport(Lock picking)
Timeline
LEARNING CLINICAL SAS PROGRAMING WITH REAL-TIME EXAMPLES – UDEMY
01-2022
THE SIMPLE GUIDE TO ADVANCED SAS PROGRAMMING-MACROS-SQL – UDEMY
01-2022
THE SIMPLEST GUIDE SAS PROGRAMMING- SAS BASE-SAS ADVANCED – UDEMY
01-2022
Lecturer, Computer Science
University Of The Free State
08.2021 - Current
Assistant Lecturer: Programming I and II
Central University Of Technology
01.2021 - 08.2021
Laboratory Technician
Central University Of Technology
01.2019 - 08.2021
Research and Development Engineer
Central University Of Technology
01.2017 - 08.2021
Masters of Engineering - Electrical Engineering
Central University of Technology
04.2001 -
Baccalaureus Technologiae: Electrical Engineering - Electrical Engineering
Central University of Technology
04.2001 -
Diploma: Computer Systems Engineering - Information And Computer Systems
Central University of Technology
04.2001 -
National Senior Certificate -
Grey College
04.2001 -
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