On developments in interactive web-based learning modules in a thermal-fluids engineering course

The main objective of this study is to investigate how the traditional lecture format in engineering education might be complemented and enhanced by computer-based teaching and learning methods. We consider the development of Web-based learning modules for 2.005 Thermal-Fluids Engineering I, a second year Mechanical Engineering course at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). These modules are the result of an initiative known as the I-Campus project which seeks to comprehensively transform the traditional education structure. The new engineering education methodologies that are introduced in this paper deal particularly with heat transfer interactions in thermal-fluids systems.