Computer-Aided Learning (CAL) of semiconductor devices

Semiconductor devices represent an important topic that requires detailed attention in many branches of engineering education. Devices such as diodes and transistors are extensively used by electrical, electronic and mechanical engineers as well as physicists throughout their entire career. Understanding the operation of these semiconductor devices is compulsory for educators who value and are truly concerned about the education of their students. To meet these objectives it is essential to address the barriers students face in their self-taught education. However, effectively learning the concepts and equations only through a text book presents a significant obstacle especially in remote leaning. Nevertheless, obtaining a complex lever of understanding is critical not only so that students can apply the concepts to design or problem solving. but also as an important aid in testing their understanding and in determining how various concepts relate to each other. We present a CD that has been developed at the University of New South Wales as an additional teaching resource for introduction of electronic devices for improved teaming outcome in both independent and distance education.