Exploring New Online Laboratory Modules For The Online Computer Networking Course

This paper presents a new set of learning laboratory modules for an online computer network course. These innovative laboratory modules are originally selected from existing computer network laboratory modules commonly used in a centralized laboratory. The goal to design these new laboratory modules is to provide online students with the same learning experience as students in a centralized laboratory. The philosophy for the new laboratory module design is to utilize simple networking devices, networking simulation software and Internet access from every online student’s home to carry out all the laboratories defined in these laboratory modules. These new distributed laboratory modules overcome the constraints caused by the unavailability of a centralized laboratory for online students. Because of these specially designed laboratory modules, online students have gained the same learning experience as students in a centralized laboratory.