Abstract

The aim of this research is to evaluate the OpenZeka Mini Autonomous Race Car (MARC), Turkey’s first autonomous vehicle competition, within the scope of the education program. The study employed the case study technique, adopting “Responsive” and “Analytical” Program Evaluation Models as the research framework. Initially, competition documents related to the training program were examined. Subsequently, interviews were conducted with trainers and contestants, focusing on their views regarding the alignment of the training with its objectives, its content, the teaching process, and the assessment and evaluation procedures. The findings highlighted several benefits of participating in the MARC competition and completing its training program. These included support for career development, the provision of foundational knowledge necessary for operating autonomous vehicles, and contributions to the national talent pool in artificial intelligence and autonomous technologies. However, the research also identified limitations of the competition program, such as its high difficulty level, intensive training demands, short training period, and crowded environment. Based on these findings, key requirements for future competitions were outlined. The study delves into the sub-components essential for autonomous driving and evaluates the competition specifically from the perspective of its educational program, providing valuable insights for similar initiatives in the future.

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