Virtual Laboratories for Engineering Education

1 Professor, Department of Civil Engineering & Engineering Mechanics, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, 85721 USA, Phone: 520-621-2145, Fax: 520621-2145: [email protected] & Guest Professor, Institute of Geotechnical Engineering, ETH Hönggerberg, Zurich. Abstract  This contribution deals with the application of modern technologies to develop virtual laboratories for civil engineering education. These virtual laboratories allow students to conduct laboratory experiments anytime and at anyplace. Students can conduct tests as if they were in a real laboratory, interpret the results and apply the results to practical situations using 3-D simulated apparatus. Each student has his/her own virtual apparatus to conduct not only the standard tests but also a variety of tests that existing, real equipment cannot accommodate. These virtual laboratories can enhance learning, retention and transfer of learning, extend the range of testing and allow for exploration of what if situations without the need for laboratory space (real estate), equipment and associated human resources. Interactions are coded in the virtual laboratories courseware to recall prior knowledge, to stimulate learning and to test learning outcomes. Virtual laboratories for a geotechnical engineering course are used to demonstrate how they can be used for engineering education.