A study support system on a hands-on networking laboratory

Abstract

In the present paper, we describe the mechanism and performance of a LAN building support system for the undergraduate study of LAN administration. The present system can be used to make a real hierarchic network from design information alone in a short time. Using the present system, students are able to select a LAN design for study as an administrator. The study of the administrative aspects of LAN management with active communication has become important. We built a hands-on networking laboratory in which each student is able to study LAN administration from the perspective of a user to that of a network manager, without any risks. Students are able to study how to design networks and construct servers on each domain network, which consists of a router and a number of hosts. Undergraduate students evaluated this system highly. In addition, some of the students requested additional study using a different LAN structure. By switching LAN structures, students are able to develop skills that are needed in LAN management for different design structures. Therefore, we propose a support system for more effectively and efficiently developing advanced skills in LAN administration. © 2007 Springer.