Image systems engineering education in an electronic classroom

Digital imaging technologies have now developed to the point where engineers specializing in image systems engineering are needed in order for imaging to reach its full potential. In 1996, the University of Iowa launched a multiphase project for the development of a well-structured interdisciplinary image systems engineering curriculum with both depth and breadth in its offerings. This project has been supported by equipment grants from the Hewlett Packard Company. The new teaching approach that we are currently developing is very dissimilar to the blackboard-and-chalk approach we used in previous years. Utilizing a 40-seat electronic classroom, lectures consist of presentation of concepts, immediately followed by examples, and practical exploratory problems. Four image processing classes have been offered in the new collaborative learning environment during the 1996–1997 academic year. This paper outlines the employed educational approach we are taking and summarizes our experience in the first year.