Instrumentation and communication modules on CD-ROMs for enriching engineering education

In response to the challenges facing engineering educators today, the latest developments in computer technology were applied to instrumentation and communication, two essential areas of the engineering curricula. Hypermedia-based resource modules containing generic information on these two areas were developed. Users can navigate the modules using either a networked tree or direct access method. This allows students to learn independently, at their own pace, and in a nonlinear way. The resource modules can be used in measurements and technical communication courses, in almost all engineering laboratories, and in capstone design projects. Since the resource modules contain generic information and are put on CD-ROMs, they can be used in other engineering programs. Preliminary results indicate that the modules were informative and helpful to students and also allowed them to learn material independently and at their own pace.