A framework for developing a cohesive set of remote laboratories for distributed distance learning settings

Abstract

The use of distance learning technology in distributed educational environments has allowed engineering courses to be delivered to locations and populations that have historically not been afforded opportunities for involvement. However, efforts to incorporate distance-learning principles into physical laboratory exercises have not yet led to a general mechanism or procedure for performing physical labs remotely. The opportunity to be able to fully cover physical laboratory exercises in distance learning setting would not only significantly enhance the student learning experience, it would also enable less privileged educational institutions to offer programs to a much broader target group of potential students who under no circumstances are able to travel and attend on-site sessions. In this paper, the authors present an overview of the field of remote or tele-operated physical laboratories how they can be implemented through today's technologies. Templates for developing a cohesive set of remote laboratories are identified along with Nemours IT considerations. In addition to the requirements related to technology, educational impacts are addressed. An example of a Control Systems experiment is then presented as an example of a functioning remote laboratory. © American Society for Engineering Education, 2009.