Facilitating process control teaching and learning in a virtual laboratory environment

The rapid pace of technological developments and the high cost of engineering equipment, pose several challenges to traditional modes of engineering education. Innovations in education are desirable, In particular, education on practical aspects of engineering and personnel training can be enhanced through the use of virtual laboratories, Such educative experiences allow a student to better understand the theoretical aspects of the discipline in addition to its integration with practical knowledge. In this work, the development, set-up and application of a virtual twin heat exchanger plant is described. The philosophy and methodology of our approach is described, including the implementation details and our experience in using it. The effectiveness of the platform in educating students and in training industrial personnel is described. (C) 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.