Applications of e-Learning in engineering education

Applications of e-Learning in engineering education

1. E-learning in engineering education

   • involves use of ICT for delivery of classroom lectures, demonstration and conduct of laboratory experiments, course and class management and administration.
     • used while delivering the lectures.
       • used for better understanding of the lessons.
         • used to demonstrate the working of a component, functioning of a circuit or process.
           • used to save time which otherwise may require repetition for each group of students of a particular class.
             • used in networked computing laboratory to demonstrate and carryout experiments which otherwise could have not been carried out in hardware laboratories due to non-availability of relevant or sufficient instruments or component(s) or due to time constraints.
               • used to deliver short online lectures, simulations, etc.
                 • used to work in collaboration on seminar papers, project reports, experimental write-ups, etc.

2. Current practices of ICT and e-learning in engineering education

   • download or studying online using some online system
     • virtual and remote laboratories to support life-long learning and autonomous students’ learning activities in various disciplines
       • web based course management system
         • software easy to use and were of the opinion

3. Case Study

   • First survey instrument was about the existing use of basic ICT tools in engineering classrooms and laboratories.
     • The second instrument was about the use of web based training tools currently used.
       • It is clear that presently ICT is not used widely.

4. Discussion

   • ICT and e-learning can be employed to improve efficiency of engineering education whether offered through traditional (based on positivism) or emerging approaches.
     • ICT and e-learning are implemented in engineering institutions all over the world.
       • ICT and e-learning are not employed even moderately.