The Web-based learning modules developed by the Rensselaer team are designed to show how mathematics works in the real world. Brunski s contribution has been a series of computer-based exercises using a mountain bike to illustrate essentially every concept that comes up in Introduction to Engineering Analysis . Exercises like Mountain Biking on Mars and Frame Design and Analysis illustrate how math works for engineers, and, just as important, give students a very real appreciation of what an engineering model is and how you create and work with models. According to Rensselaer Instructional Multimedia Consultant Don Bell, most professors are using it to augment existing classroom course material. Quizzes can be written by the professor and delivered online on a predetermined day.
Comprehensive statistics are available for quiz and question performance.
Once marked, the grade assigned is automatically entered into the WebCT grade database and, along with comments, made available to the student. Innovative computer-based learning materials designed for the MTV generation are being developed all over campus in places like the Rensselaer Academy of Electronic Media where highly creative visualization software is enabling students to learn scientific and engineering principles in totally new ways. Ten years ago, many students relied on public terminals for all their computing needs. Today s high-tech students have on average a laptop, a PC, even a server, all wired in their room. To accommodate them, Rensselaer has had to beef up service to residence halls, increasing power by 50 percent.