Title: Network-based course construction for independent and interactive learning of engineering graphics

Authors: Fang Wang; Ailian Zhang

Addresses: College of Electromechnical Engineering, WuHan Textile University, 1 Fangzhi Road, HongShan District, Wuhan, Hubei, China. ' College of Electromechnical Engineering, WuHan Textile University, 1 Fangzhi Road, HongShan District, Wuhan, Hubei, China

Abstract: The emergence of network-based courses is a strong supplement to classroom teaching. But currently the development of network-based courses has some limitations. In this paper, we propose to establish an online provincial quality course for engineering graphics by using the modelling of virtual reality modelling language (VRML). We will use the 3-D entity design software inventor to design the course website, on which students can create and manipulate objects. Some graduation design examples have been tentatively collected and provided on the website. We hope that the online course will benefit not only engineering freshmen in the university, but also the students who are doing their graduation design in the following years. Also, it will enable students to quickly get familiar with the spatial way of thinking, and the independent and interactive learning approach.

Keywords: engineering graphics; CAD; computer-aided design; VRML; virtual reality modelling language; networks; network-based courses; independent learning; interactive learning; course construction; classroom teaching; e-learning; electronic learning; online learning; internet; world wide web; provincial quality courses; 3D; three dimensions; three dimensional entities; course websites; Autodesk Inventor; mechanical solid modelling software; design software; object creation; object manipulation; graduation designs; engineering students; universities; higher education; WuHan Textile University; China; continuing education; life-long learning; engineering education; innovative teaching; innovative learning; innovation; technology support.

DOI: 10.1504/IJCEELL.2012.050069

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning, 2012 Vol.22 No.3/4, pp.247 - 256

Published online: 23 Aug 2014 *

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