Interactive multimedia lessons for education

Development of multimedia modules and courses for engineering education present a significant opportunity to modernize curricula and improve effectiveness of teaching and learning. We review the various hardware and software components required to develop multimedia lessons and discuss the role of each component in the structure of a multimedia module. Examples of multimedia lessons developed for CD-ROM distribution by the Center for Multimedia Education and Technology (CAEME) at the University of Utah are described. These include the multimedia lessons in electromagnetics, the Calculus Castle, and the Physics Museum. It is shown that although extensive resources and expertise are often needed to develop these modules, development software and associated technologies are readily available and educators are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities to reform, restructure, and improve engineering education.