Improving Student Learning of Basic Electronic Circuits Concepts using Web-Based Tools

Student success in electrical engineering is built on mastery of foundational circuit analysis concepts such as Kirchhoff's laws and the Thevenin and Norton theorems. However, the course in which these concepts are taught comes very early in the student's post baccalaureate career. Many students at this level have not yet developed sufficient skills such as effective note taking, building conceptual frameworks that integrate new ideas with existing knowledge, and the need to utilize concepts from prerequisite courses. This paper describes web-based supplemental study aids which are being developed at our university. Students may utilize these study aids to review and practice these key circuit analysis concepts at any time during their academic career. We intend to improve learning and retention by providing engaging interactive online resources such as lectures notes, examples, simulations, and practice problems. These learning materials are completely online to help beginning electrical engineering students learn, and they can also be accessed by students in subsequent courses to refresh their knowledge of these topics at any time.