Interactive Web Environments and multimedia tools are very common in engineering studies. However, these resources are very limited when graphical resolution is needed during the learning process. A learning environment that combines video and self-assessment Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools was developed to analyse this problem and to determine…

Current e-learning forms are commonly based on improving the learning process through the enhancement of certain skills in students, such as collaborative, competitive or problem-based learning. However, it seems that there is still no e-learning "formula" that gathers the implementation of a number of more generic educational principles in a…

Cubic symmetry is used to build the other four Platonic solids and some formalism from classical geometry is introduced. Initially, the approach is via geometric construction, e.g., the "golden ratio" is necessary to construct an icosahedron with pentagonal faces. Then conventional elementary vector algebra is used to extract quantitative…

In this paper, results from a subset of the Purdue Spatial Visualization Test and a self-efficacy test developed by the authors are presented to determine whether certain object shapes, orientations, and types of rotations in standard spatial ability tests cause more difficulty than others and whether a solid object, which includes shading to…

This paper outlines the work in progress undertaken by the School of Engineering Technology faculty to identify, assess, and develop a course to address the depth and breadth of drafting/plan preparation and plan reading skills required by the various engineering technology programs offered at Youngstown State University. The methodology used to…

Discusses the use of a computer-illustrated text (CIT) with integrated software to teach electric circuit theory to college students. Examples of software use are given, including simple animation, graphical displays, and problem-solving programs. Issues affecting electric circuit theory instruction are also addressed, including mathematical…

Graphical plans for construction of machinery and architecture have evolved over the last 6,000 years beginning from hieroglyphics to drawings on printable media, from the "Golden Age" of engineering graphics to the innovation of computer graphics and prototyping. The evolution of engineering design graphics as a profession has also evolved. Years…

The goal of this document is to bring instruction in graphic design to the presentation of information in all subject areas and to encourage educators to embrace graphic design as a powerful tool for accomplishing the daily task of communicating information and ideas to students. The document uses activities to reinforce the concepts discussed in…

This article describes the AutoCAD Laboratory at Hawaii's Kamehameha Secondary Schools, offering the perspective of the AutoCAD instructor and Technology Department Head, looking at a day in the AutoCAD Laboratory, and explaining how teaching students about computer-assisted design and drafting can prepare them for college or careers. (SM)

A proposition that 3-D CAD provides an array of unambiguous solutions to engineering problems is illustrated. This proposition assumes that engineering problems are conceived in parallel processing mode while they are solved in sequential processing mode. Circle construction analysis, parallel equidistant planes, and solid modeling are discussed.…

An approach to reduce the barrier between two-dimensional computer-aided drafting and three-dimensional constructive solids modeling is graphically illustrated. This process, or some derivative, encompasses a significant portion of the future direction for engineering graphics education. (KR)

Described is a pilot course which includes a designed set of exercises to instruct students in procedures for creating solid models. A detailed description and analysis of students' various approaches used in completing a final design project are included. (KR)

The existing methods for graphically illustrating projection and coordinate systems for manual and computer-aided drafting and design are examined. Inconsistencies in methods used to graphically depict first and third angle projection in texts and the lack of attention in the relationship of projection to coordinate systems are noted. (KR)

An algorithm is described for generating smooth curves of first-order continuity. The algorithm is composed of several cubic Bezier curves joined together at the user defined control points. Introduced is a tension control parameter which can be set thus providing additional flexibility in the design of free-form curves. (KR)

The focus of this article is on how computer graphics can be integrated throughout the engineering graphics curriculum to increase visual perceptual skills. Visual perception is defined, the need to develop it is described, and methods which engineering graphics educators can use to develop it are outlined. (KR)