Visual Learning Tools for Teaching/Learning Computer Networks: Cisco Networking Academy and Packet Tracer

Teaching and learning more abstract subjects, such as computer networks, where higher level of student’s imagination is necessary to understand advanced topics can be positively supported trough a technique called visual learning. Students can more easily understand and adapt the information from the subject, when they can visually see how it really works. Teachers can present the subject using animations and practical examples, rather than just talking about theory facts. This paper presents the features of a visual learning tool called Packet Tracer – a computer networks simulator, which is freely available for all Cisco Networking Academy students.