Microcomputer graphics in teaching mechanics of materials

Undergraduates in engineering fields such as civil and mechanical engineering are required to take two or three mechanics of material courses in their sophomore and junior years. Students are expected to learn fundamental concepts and basic problem solving techniques in these courses. Computers have not been used in these courses for fear of creating 'button-pushers' rather than creative engineers and problem solvers. It is argued that interactive computer graphics can be a useful tool for teaching confusing concepts such as stress distribution. We are currently experimenting the use of microcomputer graphics in teaching undergraduate mechanics of material courses. A number of interactive microcomputer programs are being developed in Turbo Pascal for computer-aided instruction (CAI) of mechanics of materials. An example of the CAI programs is presented which is intended to help the student in learning torsion and bending of open thin-walled cross-sections used in steel structures.