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Session 2520

Learning Modules for Finite Element Method on the World Wide Web

Joseph J. Rencis1, Eron Flory2, Peter Kwok3/ Javed Alam4 Worcester Polytechnic Institute/Youngstown State University

Abstract

Web based learning modules have been developed for linear algebra, single degree of freedom spring, bar element, beam element and industrial applications of FEM. These modules can be accessed by students and engineers twenty-four hours a day since they reside on a World-Wide Web server. This paper will review the format of the bar and beam element learning modules and the experiences of the first author in integrating all five modules into the introductory undergraduate finite element course at WPI. The issue of student feedback is also addressed.

1. Introduction

The Internet/World-Wide Web (WWW) is emerging as a new medium for transmitting information globally, created in multimedia form. Engineering educators have been using the Web the past few academic years in courses, for posting course guidelines, homework, etc., and to develop courseware (instructional modules) [1-4]. Two Web pages that include some Finite Element Method (FEM) learning material can be found at [5, 6].

To exploit the latest developments in the enabling technology of networked multimedia for instructional purposes a website entitled the “Finite Element Method universal resource” (FEMur) is being developed by a consortium of universities. The FEMur homepage is located at the URL address http://femur.wpi.edu/ and is shown in Figure 1. The FEMur homepage includes: 1. Browse Finite Element Resources on WWW; 2. Learning Modules for the Finite Element Method. 'Resources for FEM on WWW' is a collection of organized links to FEM on the World-Wide Web. Some resources include commercial FEM codes, textbooks, other FEM homepages, consulting services, newsgroups, university, government and personal homepages, and professional societies. ‘Learning Modules for the Finite Element Method’ is a modular learning resource that includes theoretical aspects and analysis applications of typical elements. This paper will review the format of the learning modules and the experiences of the first author in integrating them into the undergraduate FEM course at WPI.

1 Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering 2 Manufacturing Engineer, FMI Corporation, Novato, CA 3 M.S. Student in Mechanical Engineering at MIT 4 Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

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Kwok, P., & Flory, E., & Alam, J., & Rencis, J. (1999, June), Learning Modules For Finite Element Method On The World Wide Web Paper presented at 1999 Annual Conference, Charlotte, North Carolina. 10.18260/1-2--7812