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Flash-Based Interactive Learning of Fundamental Fourier Analysis

Trasapong Thaiupathump*, Wanasanan Thongsongkrit*, Rungchat Chompu-inwai** * Department of Computer Engineering, Faculty of Engineering Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, THAILAND Phone: +66 53 942024 E-mail: trasapong@eng.cmu.ac.th ** Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon, 97331-2407

Introduction Fourier analysis is an important fundamental concept for many engineering disciplines, such as digital signal processing, communications, and digital image processing1,2,3. The analysis involves transforming signals between time-domain and frequency-domain. Many learners have difficulties in understanding or visualizing the relationships between these two domains and some basic Fourier concepts and operations as well. In traditional approaches, teaching the basic concepts of Fourier analysis with the use of only still images and descriptions is not an easy task and not very effective either. For example, the convolution operation of two time-domain signals can be better demonstrated with animation. Moreover, since most signals are generally controllable by some adjustable parameters, such as time period, frequency, or sampling rate, the learning will be more effective if learners can adjust these parameters and readily observe the results of the changes. Obviously, the interactive learning approach will provide learners with a better understanding of fundamental Fourier concepts.

This paper explores the interactive approach to teaching basic Fourier concepts and operations, which include basic properties of sinusoidal signals, Fourier series, sampling, aliasing, convolution, and modulation. Macromedia Flash MX4, which currently is a standard for the interactive animation for the Web, is used to implement the interactive teaching approach. The developed tutoring system will utilize animation contents and maximize the interaction with students for distance education as well.

Methods This paper selects some of the Fourier basic concepts and operations that will be most beneficial by the use of interactive/animation tutoring approach. These selected basic concepts and operations are: fundamental properties of signals, Fourier series, sampling, convolution, and modulation.

Visualizations for the operations were implemented by using Macromedia Flash MX and the programming for interactive user interface and animation were implemented by using

“Proceedings of the 2005 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2005, American Society for Engineering Education”

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Thongsongkrit, W., & Thaiupathump, T., & Chompu-inwai, R. (2005, June), Flash Based Interactive Learning Of Fundamental Fourier Analysis Paper presented at 2005 Annual Conference, Portland, Oregon. 10.18260/1-2--15554