Creating a smooth transition between the classroom and laboratory via computer simulation

Computer simulation can play an important role in engineering and technology education by creating a bridge between the theoretical material taught in the classroom and the practical applications demonstrated in laboratory exercises. By performing a computer simulation of the laboratory assignment after the theoretical material is taught but before the students enter the lab, the students become more capable of recognizing incorrect lab results, resolving problems involving cabling, equipment adjustments, and nonideal equipment without assistance from the instructor, and validating correct results. This capability allows the students to concentrate on correlating the classroom and laboratory material, makes them more attentive to details in the lab, and provides them with more confidence in their technical capabilities. In this paper, the authors discuss how Hypersignal, a systems-oriented computer simulation package, has been integrated into a senior-level communications class and laboratory course. The results of formal and informal student surveys are given, showing the effectiveness of the simulation package as a bridge and learning tool. The concept of using simulation as a bridge between classroom and laboratory, used with appropriate software packages, can also enhance other academic disciplines such as electronics, AC and DC circuits, and control systems.