Multimedia modules for electromagnetics education

Multimedia technology provides a valuable resource to enhance the teaching and learning experience. The ability to combine practical applications, visualization of complex mathematical and abstract subjects, virtual labs, and guided use of simulation software is among the advantages of technology-based education. In this article we describe the main features of several multimedia tutorials for electromagnetics education developed by the Computer Applications in Engineering Education Center at the University of Utah. The electromagnetics CD-ROM includes lessons on vectors and coordinate systems, electrostatics, Maxwell's equations, electromagnetic waves, dielectric materials, and transmission lines. Several Virtual labs were developed and software packages on electrostatic, transient and steady-state analysis of transmission lines, and two-dimensional finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation code are included. Tutorials can be used both as standalone tutors and as demonstrations to complement classroom lectures. (C) 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.