The performance of students learning thermodynamics through an online courseware

To cater for the problems faced by engineering students learning thermodynamics, a courseware was designed and developed based on constructivist learning theory and visualization characteristics. Visualization was chosen is based on the finding of a previous study that most engineering students are visual learners. The data on performance tests and confidence level of students were analyzed quantitatively. Based on the findings, students' understanding on topics of energy and the first law of thermodynamics, and confidence level, were significantly enhanced after using the courseware.