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ThermoNet:: A Web-Based Learning Resource for Engineering Thermodynamics

Derek Baker, Ofodike Ezekoye, and Philip Schmidt Department of Mechanical Engineering and Colleen Jones and Min Liu Department of Curriculum and Instruction University of Texas at Austin

Abstract

ThermoNet is a comprehensive web site being developed under NSF sponsorship to provide internet-based learning resources for students in engineering thermodynamics. The site includes a series of tutorials covering the topics typical of introductory engineering thermo courses, interactive example problems, thermodynamic property tables with an on-line calculator, historical and biographical notes on the evolution of thermodynamics, a rich archive of graphics, animations and movies illustrating thermodynamic principles and applications, and links to other sites of thermodynamic interest. Conceptual and detailed design of ThermoNet, implementation of a server-based data acquisition system to collect data on student use patterns, and evaluation of student learning styles and reactions to ThermoNet are discusssed.

Introduction

Engineering thermodynamics, typically introduced at the sophomore level in mechanical, aerospace and chemical engineering curricula, is often anticipated with a degree of dread by students, who perceive the subject as dry and abstract. The material is not, by nature, as graphic as many other engineering topics (e.g., mechanics), so many students have problems visualizing thermodynamic phenomena and processes. Laboratories are virtually nonexistent due to the expense of equipment and the slow process of gathering meaningful data. While many excellent textbooks have been developed, conventional printed media are limited in their ability to elucidate complex concepts both by their inherent static and passive nature, and by the high cost of graphics.

Educators generally agree that hypermedia technology can be effective in teaching and learning1; the ability to represent information in diverse forms can accommodate the needs of various types of learners2, although not all media are equally effective with all learners. For teaching of engineering subject matter, hypermedia systems offer a new oppportunity to overcome some of the limitations of conventional media. Graphics-rich content, including animations, sound and video files, can be delivered inexpensively via the World Wide Web or CD-ROM, and interactivity can easily be incorporated via Javascripts and Java applets to draw the learner into the active learning process.

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Ezekoye, O., & Liu, M., & Baker, D., & Jones, C., & Schmidt, P. (2000, June), Thermo Net: A Web Based Learning Resource For Engineering Thermodynamics Paper presented at 2000 Annual Conference, St. Louis, Missouri. 10.18260/1-2--8772