The Use of Computer-Assisted Learning within Undergraduate Thermofluids Courses

Abstract

This article describes the results of a 1992 survey into the use of computer-assisted teaching of undergraduate thermofluids within UK universities. The results do not include computer packages which are of a general scientific nature and used as aids to calculations. It is assumed that all universities are using these computer aids.

The analysis of 44 responses to a questionnaire sent out to 65 UK universities reveals that very few are using any thermofluids computer packages in the first and second undergraduate years, but about three-quarters are using some (typically 1, 2 or 3 packages) in the final year. About one-third of the packages are ‘home-produced’ by individual universities, tailored to their particular courses. Two-thirds are educational licensed versions of bought commercial packages. No single commercial package is in widespread use across the university sector, but six separate packages are in limited use.

The authors conclude this paper with their views on future developments.

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