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Using Interactive Simulation-based On-line Learning Tools in
Engineering Education
Yakov E. Cherner
ATeL, LLC
PowerPoint
presentation
Abstract
Educational research has shown that students are better at learning
concepts if they have experience with concrete phenomena that are
being studied and if they are aware of the potential applications
and usefulness of the knowledge they are acquiring. This workshop
will present an innovative problem-based instructional methodology
and interactive simulation-based on-line learning system, Active
Learning Suite (ALSuite). ALSuite uses real-life processes and objects—such
as those related to plumbing and HVAC/R systems and telecommunications—as
the content for science, engineering, and technology education and
corporate training. ALSuite is designed for learning by doing. It
includes simulations, virtual experiments, interactive lessons,
problem-solving tutor, scriptable and animated instructor's assistant,
ancillary tools, and more. State-of-the-art graphical interfaces
and realistic models provide an "insight" view of the
process and allow students to imitate authentic tasks that are similar
to or identical with those tasks they are required (or will require)
to do in their workplaces.
The
current version of ALSuite includes the following modules: | Thermodynamics | Golf
mechanics | Fluid mechanics | Fiber
optics | Telephony (both wireline
and wireless) | Fundamentals of
wireless communications | ALSuite
software can be run from | Web
site over the Internet | Server
via a local school or corporate network | CD
or hard drive of a stand-alone computer |
ALSuite was developed
with a partial support from the National Science Foundation Objectives - Present
an innovative problem-based instructional methodology and tools.
- Demonstrate
how to use the interactive simulation-based tools to motivate students and engage
them in the learning process before exploring science and technical principles
and concepts.
- Instruct attendees in how to assemble a technology-reach
e-learning environment for active learning and in how to integrate it with existing
curriculum materials.
Workshop attendees will receive a demo CD that
provides an overview of ALSuite materials and some of the interactive lessons
that have been developed.
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