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Session 2426

Distance Learning of Engineering Courses with Web-based Real Experimental Experience

Fei-Yue Wang 1, 2, Guangpi Lai 1, 2, Frank Wu 1, 2, Jeff Goldberg 1, A. Terry Bahill 1, and Haijun Gao 2 1 Systems and Industrial Engineering Department, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA 2 Lab for Complex Systems and Intelligence Science, Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China

Abstract

Distance learning has been greatly enhanced through the use of the Internet. In Arizona, a joint effort has been made by the three state universities to offer a Master of Engineering Degree primarily through Internet and video distance learning. However, engineering courses often use hands-on laboratory projects with actual physical systems as an integral part of the curriculum and learning process. It is difficult to include these labs in web-based instruction unless one uses simulations or virtual experiments. This paper presents the development of web-based lab projects with actual hardware for courses in linear systems and systems control. Students download control programs to the equipment. Sensor data and a streaming video of the ongoing equipment are transmitted back to the student. The approach allows a higher utilization of lab equipment, saves student travel time, and provides an effective tool for learning as students can debug programs based on visual and sensor information. This development has been jointly conducted in the University of Arizona's Web-based Audio Video Educational Systems (WAVES) Laboratory and the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Complex Systems and Intelligence Science Laboratory. The web site for the materials is: http://pallas.sie.arizona.edu/newwaves/ and the work has been supported by an NSF CRCD grant and an Outstanding Scientist Program grant from the State Planning and Development Commission of China. We focus on system architecture, programming environment, user interface, application and experience in course instruction.

1. Introduction

To address students' concerns in undergraduate education, the College of Engineering and Mines at the University of Arizona conducted a student/faculty survey in which students were asked to rank the importance of 12 issues in undergraduate education. The survey report has indicated that our students consider 1) “hands on” experiences with the application of engineering principles, 2) faculty who communicate course material effectively, and 3) the ability to relate studies to career preparation and future employment, as the three most important issues at the College. The clearly showed that students were not satisfied with the current situation at the College in terms of hand-on experiences and career preparation since

Proceedings of the 2003 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2003, American Society for Engineering Education

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Wang, Z., & Lai, G., & Wang, F., & Bahill, A. T., & Goldberg, J. (2003, June), Distance Learning Of Engineering Courses With Web Based Real Experimental Experience Paper presented at 2003 Annual Conference, Nashville, Tennessee. 10.18260/1-2--11644