Networked implementation of an electrical measurement laboratory for first course engineering studies

A method based on the use of computers to guide and supervise the practical work performed by the students in a basic hardware laboratory is described. The bench computer adds real-time monitoring of the work done by the student, so that most mistakes, improper measurement settings, etc., are detected and immediately fed back. This environment reinforces student motivation. The networked architecture of the laboratory permits the centralized supervision and tracking of the work done at each bench. The use of standard communication protocols allows the extension of the approach to remotely located benches under the supervision of the central server. Internet-based tools are also included in the method to complement the learning process.