A Virtual Classroom Via Dataconferencing: A Multi-Institutional Experience

This paper presents the experience of five faculty from four universities who are co-developing and team teaching courses using the world-wide web (WWW). In particular two novel power engineering courses, Flexible Control of Transmission Systems and Flexible Control of Distribuction Systems, introduce the student to the application of power electronic-based controllers, known specifically as flexible AC transmission systems (FACTS) controllers, to enhance the performance of the transmission and distribution systems in an electric power system. In order to leverage faculty expertise in the various topics included in each course, a unique partnership was formed among five faculty from the following universities: University of Arkansas, Kansas State University, University of Missouri--Rolla and Purdue University. In order to achieve the most effective presentation, in the presence of geographical, cost, time and technology constraints, the co-developers decided to pursue various distance learning strategies to link the four universities together in a live interactive virtual classroom utilizing dataconferencing software and the WWW. In this paper we address the trials and tribulations of our experience. In particular, we discuss the use of video tape technology by mail, the use of live audio and video via an integrated service digital network (ISDN) approach, and lastly, dataconferencing software in conjunction with telephone conferencing. Each of these alternative methodologies are examined in detail and are compared and contrasted from a cost and pedagogical point of view based on our experience

Collaborative Distance Education in Power Engineering

This paper presents a perspective on offering shared-courses, or courses simultaneously offered at two or more universities via various distance educational frameworks. Over a three year duration, two senior/graduate level courses were jointly developed and offered to the students at the University of Missouri--Rolla, the University of Arkansas, Kansas State University, and Purdue University. This paper discusses the various distance educational technologies including two-way audio/visual via ISDN line, video-tapes, and web-based conferencing. Both instructor and student reactions to these mediums are included. Pedagogical methods appropriate for these mediums are outlined. The paper concludes with recommendations and strategies for engineering institutions who would like to course-share with other universities and industry

A Multi-Institutional Cooperative Approach to Power Engineering Education

This paper describes the multi-institutional cooperative effort between the University of Missouri--Rolla, Kansas State University, and the University of Arkansas to develop two new courses in flexible power system control