Interaction and simulation-based multimedia modules for electromagnetics education

Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) and multimedia applications are becoming widely accepted in the development of modern technology-based engineering curricula. Many educators realize that multimedia technology provides an exciting opportunity to significantly enhance teaching procedures and laboratory developments. The ability to incorporate practical applications, visualization of mathematical subjects and abstract concepts, and the feasibility of using multimedia applications to provide students with guided use of simulation software are among the many benefits of technology-based education. In this paper we describe several multimedia tutorials developed for electromagnetics courses. These tutorials may be used as stand-alone tutors or as demonstrations to complements classroom teaching. The tutorials include text, graphics, sound, animation, and simulation software integrated into multimodal presentations. For illustration, we will demonstrate several electromagnetics tutorials developed by the CAEME Center at the University of Utah. These include: Multimedia modules of early experiments that led to the development of Maxwell's equations. Multimedia modules of Hertz's experiments Practical applications of electromagnetic technology.