Adressing Different Learning Styles in Thermodynamics with Graphical Simulations: Proof-of-Concept

传统的工程学教学方法并不能解决所有类型的学习者。热力学课程尤其如此，它不太适合视觉和主动学习类型。这个概念验证项目的目标是开发一种教育软件材料，将计算机模拟和可视化相结合，以提高热力学学生的学习效率。拟议的软件将是模块化的，并可随着时间的推移进行扩展。该程序结构将利用LabVIEW的G语言中的图形编程方法。用户界面也将完全是图形的。为了方便学生使用，指示器和控制器将模仿现实生活中的设备。具体的学习目标是：1)改进针对不同学习类型的教学，2)增加一个学期可以涵盖的课程内容的数量，以及3)促进学生的探索/设计。模拟基本热力学动力循环的材料将被创造出来，以评估这个概念。将在工程热力学课堂上进行试验实施，以评估项目的概念和成果以实现目标。评价将强调教材对不同类型学习者的有效性，包括与代表性不足群体的相关性。将制作程序文件，以及机械、核和化学工程热力学课程的课程发展计划。结果将主要通过电子手段和技术出版物传播。

Traditional instruction methods in engineering do not address all types of learners. This is particularly true for the thermodynamics curriculum, which is poorly suited to visual and active learning types. The goal of this proof-of-concept project is to develop an educational software material, which combines computer simulation and visualization to improve learning effectiveness for students in thermodynamics. The proposed software will be modular and expandable over time. The programming structure will take advantage of graphical programming methods in the G language of LabVIEW. The user interface will be completely graphical as well. Indicators and controls will mimic real-life devices for ease of student use. The specific learning objectives are: 1) improvement in instruction for different learning types, 2) an increase in the amount of course content which can be covered in a semester, and 3) facilitation of student exploration/design. Material, which simulates a basic thermodynamic power cycle, will be created to evaluate the concept. Trial implementation in an Engineering Thermodynamics classroom will be performed to allow evaluation of the project concept and outcomes in meeting objectives. The evaluation will emphasize the effectiveness of the material for different types of learners, including, relevance to underrepresented groups. Program documentation will be produced, as well as curriculum development plans for thermodynamics courses in Mechanical, Nuclear, and Chemical Engineering. Results will be disseminated primarily through electronic means and technical publication.