Comparison between Traditional and Web-Based Interactive Manuals for Laboratory-Based Subjects

Abstract

This paper presents the salient features of web-based interactive manuals for laboratory-based subjects and compares them with traditional laboratory manuals. The manuals utilize the latest developments in web applications, JAVA programming and pre-designed spreadsheets with the objective of reducing the time taken for students to perform the mundane and laborious calculations and plotting of graphs. The students can therefore utilize the time in the laboratories on the analysis and discussion of results besides performing the actual experiments. Moreover, the web-based interactive manuals incorporate virtual experiments, digital pictures, animated GIF files and quick movies to familiarize the students with the experimental set-up before performing the physical experiments. The proposed approach is applicable for laboratory-based subjects, which are not amenable to be converted completely to virtual laboratories.

A Team-Based CAD Project Utilising the Latest CAD Technique and Web-Based Technologies

“…Students can use their code to contact the first author by email during their private study in case of any problems and it also makes student assessment easier. To deliver an advanced CAD/CAM programme one needs up-to-date resources [19,27] and a modern approach to laboratory-based teaching programmes [12,28,29]. The Faculty of Engineering at Bristol University has the following CAE software: I-deas, Unigraphics and Imageware.…”

“…PLM is an environment where the computer and webbased technologies are used in design, manufacture and testing and to help collaboration and the achievement of CE [4][5][6]. The CAD laboratories contain a computer-based tutoring [11] and web-based application [29,30] to provide the opportunity for students to practise the concept of product visualisation (PV). This includes geometric modelling, mechanism design, assembly modelling, simulation, animation and product customisation.…”

Introducing Modern Laboratory Experiences to Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Students

“…Amongst some of the more challenging aspects of engineering education is in imparting hands-on experience of the latest technologies in measurements and testing. Despite the fact that engineering requires practical know-how, this challenge is in itself being compromised as the engineering curriculum over the past decades moves away from workshops and laboratories toward classroom lectures and computer simulations, including virtual laboratories and web-based learning strategies [2][3][4][5].…”

“…The trend most likely began with the requirement that laboratory reports be submitted as a computer-generated document, usually using Microsoft Word. The next step likely involves processing data, recorded by pen and paper, using Microsoft Excel [5][6][7][8]. Once the students and instructors became comfortable with these approaches, the stage is then set for the which is an entirely seamless computer-based approach.…”

The Chemical Thermodynamic Module Of The Expert System For Thermodynamics (“Test”) Web Application

“…Requiring only a standard web browser to operate, students can access these tools using devices other than laptops such as high-end mobile phones. Advances in Java programming, JavaScript, CSS, and Page 14.1187.2 other browser technologies can enhance 3 the quality of education in a classroom. With the recent introduction of Web Service technology, data and software can be seamlessly integrated with any type of client application 4 .…”