Design and Construction of a Mobile Laboratory for Distance Learning in Engineering Technology

Last ten years have seen a explosion in the number distance learning programs offered by educational institutions . Distance learning programs of various types are available through more than 1,000 educational institutions in the United States. [1] Estimates are that by the year 2007 almost 50 percent of all learners enrolled in postsecondary education courses will take some of their courses through distance education formats. [2] Offering distance learning programs in Engineering and Engineering Technology pose special challenges for institutions. While it is relatively easy to modify a lecture course for distance education, it is the laboratory courses that offer real challenge. Various solutions have been proposed to address the problem of offering realistic laboratories experience for distance learners. These include virtual Laboratories, computer based simulations, videotaped laboratory experiments and mobile laboratories. This paper discusses the effort that has gone into the design and construction of a mobile laboratory to be used in conjunction with the televised program in Mechanical Engineering Technology Program at Old Dominion University.

Design and Construction of a Mobile Laboratory for Distance Learning in Engineering Technology Conference Paper