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Session Description

Free ticketed event
Through a grant from the NSF, we have developed a games-based virtual lab simulation for the Strength of Materials lab for civil engineering students. The virtual lab is a visual recreation of three course labs, the Tension Test, Torsion Test, and Poisson’s Ratio Test. By using the simulation, a number of scenarios can be virtually shown to students that would normally not be tested in a lab due to cost and safety concerns. Using strategic interface design aesthetics, we project that the 3D games-based learning environment will result in improved learning and reduced costs to engineering programs. Virtual labs utilize small computer applications that are available for free; therefore, virtual labs can cost "virtually nothing." A virtual Strength of Materials lab eliminates technician costs, specimens needed, and costly safety equipment. With virtual Strength of Materials labs, there will be no need for physical lab space and infrastructure requirements can be reduced significantly. The effectiveness of this approach is measured using quantitative and qualitative analysis and compared to student performance in the traditional physical laboratory. The program has been developed through the joint efforts of the engineering, gaming, and media arts faculty at Southern Polytechnic State University. We are proposing a half-day (three hour) workshop for the ASEE Conference. Participants will learn how to use the program and complete the lab tests that are normally done using large and expensive machines. The workshop will be for a total of 25 educators. Each participant will be offered a stipend of $320 to take part. We ask participants to work with the program and answer a questionnaire after completing the workshop.

Speakers

1. Dr. Wasim Barham P.E.

   Kennesaw State University

   Assistant Professor
   School of Engineering
   Southern Polytechnic State University
   1100 S. Marietta Parkway
   Marietta, GA 30060
   Tel: (678) 915-3946
   Fax: (678)-915-5527

2. James Werner

   Kennesaw State University

   Assistant Professor of Visual and Media Arts
   Southern Polytechnic State University
   1100 S. Marietta Parkway
   Marietta, GA 30060