A Way To Increase The Engineering Student’s Qualitative Understanding Of Particle Kinematics And Kinetics By Utilizing Interactive Web Based Animation Software

Animation software for an introductory Dynamics course has been developed, which may be an integral feature of the web-based learning system, WileyPLUS (John Wiley and Sons, Inc. New York). This interactive software is unique because each animation may be directly linked to a homework problem and absolutely no programming is required of the user. The animations are hard-coded in Adobe Flash Action Script, so no external computer programs are needed. A study of 58 students was conducted in two sections of Dynamics during the spring term of 2008, where the software was used for both in-class demonstrations and homework assignments. Students used the program to help them answer eight qualitative questions regarding specific particle kinematics and kinetics concepts. A high percentage of students answered these questions correctly (with the assistance of the software). An anonymous survey was conducted at the end of the term regarding the effectiveness of the software. It was found that the students’ qualitative understanding of particle kinematics and kinetics was significantly improved by using the program. The students consider the software easy to use and recommend it to instructors who teach introductory Dynamics classes. In this paper, the software functionality will be explained. The results of the subjective assignment will be detailed, and pedagogical advantages will be clarified via survey results and the comments of students.