Internet Based Interactive Software for Industrial Engineering

Internet Based Interactive Software for Industrial Engineering


ABSTRACT

New and developing electronic communication tools are rapidly changing the
methods in which educators can educate and students can learn. Electronically supported
collaborative learning environments utilizing various interactive technologies are now
being used in all levels of education, including K-12, industrial training and higher
education. This research focuses on the application of educational technologies and the
Internet for industrial engineering education. In particular, the online review system
developed by the University of Oklahoma for the afternoon session of the Fundamentals
of Engineering Exam for Industrial Engineering was selected to demonstrate an effective
use of the these new electronic communications tools and networks. This work forms a
part of the Fundamentals of Engineering Review project carried out by the University of
Oklahoma.

The online review system uses all forms of electronic media including graphics,
animations, simulations, text and 3D visualizations thus enabling the students to learn and
remember difficult concepts by visualizing and interacting with them. A random
generated exam has been developed to help the user practice taking the actual exam. The
practice exam is graded instantly and reported to the user through the web. A positive
feedback regarding the efficacy of the online review system was obtained from a survey
group. The online review system also lays the framework for the complete curriculum of
industrial engineering on the Internet. Furthermore, it can also be used to promote and
propagate the field of industrial engineering to prospective students and therefore can be
utilized as an effective recruitment tool by Industrial Engineering schools.