ERIC Number: EJ1004040
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1750-497X
EISSN: N/A
Distance Learning and Skill Acquisition in Engineering Sciences: Present State and Prospects
Potkonjak, Veljko; Jovanovic, Kosta; Holland, Owen; Uhomoibhi, James
Multicultural Education & Technology Journal, v7 n1 p64-88 2013
Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to present an improved concept of software-based laboratory exercises, namely a Virtual Laboratory for Engineering Sciences (VLES). Design/methodology/approach: The implementation of distance learning and e-learning in engineering sciences (such as Mechanical and Electrical Engineering) is still far behind current practice in narrative disciplines (Economics, Management, etc.). This is because education in technical disciplines requires laboratory exercises, providing skill-acquisition and hands-on experience. In order to overcome this problem for distance-learning developers and practitioners, a new modular and hierarchically organized approach is needed. Findings: The concept involves simulation models to emulate system dynamics, full virtual reality to provide visualization, advanced social-clubbing to ensure proper communication, and an AI tutor to supervise the lab work. Its modularity and hierarchical organization offer the possibility of applying the concept to practically any engineering field: a higher level provides the general framework--it considers lab workplaces as objects regardless of the technical field they come from, and provides communication and supervision--while the lower level deals with particular workplaces. An improved student's motivation is expected. Originality/value: The proposed concept aims rather high, thus making the work truly challenging. With the current level of information and communication technologies, some of the required features can only be achieved with difficulty; however, the rapid growth of the relevant technologies supports the eventual practicality of the concept. This paper is not intended to present any final results, solutions, or experience. The idea is to promote the concept, identify problems, propose guidelines, and possibly open a discussion. (Contains 15 figures, 1 table, and 4 notes.)
Descriptors: Electronic Learning, Distance Education, Computer Simulation, Skill Development, Science Process Skills, Laboratory Experiments, Online Courses, Courseware, Virtual Classrooms, Science Course Improvement Projects, Engineering Education, Engineering Technology, Science Laboratories, Robotics, Teaching Methods
Emerald Group Publishing Limited. Howard House, Wagon Lane, Bingley, West Yorkshire, BD16 1WA, UK. Tel: +44-1274-777700; Fax: +44-1274-785201; e-mail: emerald@emeraldinsight.com; Web site: http://www.emeraldinsight.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A