Open AccessCurrently, in simulation there is a trend towards using the distributed software tools, particularly ones, which are using cloud technologies and the Internet. The article considers a simulation educational tool, implemented as a web application using the Java language with special Java class library developed for simulation. It is focused on a discrete event approach to modeling, similarly to the GPSS language, and intended for queuing systems simulation.
The structure of the models obtained using this class library is similar to that of the GPSS language models. Also, the simulation language interpreter similar to GPSS is created using this class library, with some differences in the individual statements.
Simulation experiments are performed on the server-side, and on client-side you must use a browser with standard functions to enter the source code into HTML-created form. Mobile devices can be used as clients. The source code of a model can be represented both in the Java language using a class library and in the language similar to GPSS.
The simulation system implements functions especially for educational process. For example, there is possibility for a student to upload learning materials on the server, send developed software and reports of test control to the teacher via the Internet, and receive a detailed assessment of their results from the teacher. Also detailed results of passed tests in learning modules are entered, and some other functions are implemented in the system.
As examples, the article considers models of the m/M/n/0 type queuing system in Java with a class library, and in the language similar to GPSS, shows simulation results, and presents the analytical model and calculations for this system. Analytical calculations proved that the modeling system is useful, as it overlaps simulation results with the acceptable error. Some approaches to the interaction with students through the Internet, used in modeling environment, can find application in teaching other subject matters.