A classroom/distance learning engineering course on optical networking with virtual lab

The paper presents the design of an engineering course on ldquooptical networkingrdquo in a traditional classroom /distance learning format. The paper will also show that how classroom learning can be enhanced by making available to learners the classroom lecture in audio /video/pdf format from anywhere and at all times on demand, referred as the lecture-on-demand technology. This technology enables the distant, absent and those students who have lost concentration in the classroom, the experience of the class room environment beyond the physical classroom. In this method, the students can concentrate on learning and not be distracted by having to take notes in the classroom. For instructors, the technology is as easy as writing on transparencies. The legacy classroom lecturing is preserved in this technology except the lack of visual feedback. The method requires minimal training in transition for both the teacher and the learner. Technology is the result of integration of Microsoft Power Point (tablet version) and a third party software for capturing and embedding the audio and video parts of the lecture. The course includes three components: a) content, b) virtual laboratories and c) project. The course content contains enabling technology, deployment in networking infrastructure and the management of optical networks. The virtual lab is based on the pioneering simulation-based online virtual laboratories in fiber-optic communication and networking, developed and commercialized by ATeL, LLC. The labs are designed for a new, so called digital generation of learners and cater to varied and newer learning styles. The students are required to prepare the design of an optical network for a local area in the vicinity of the campus, taking into account local terrain and the networking needs specific to the area. Project design is the capstone activity involving literature search and application of multiple learned concepts and techniques. This course is being taught as a senior/graduate level class. For more information about virtual labs please visit ATeL website http://ATeLearning.com .