Advances in hands-on experiments and simulations for an introductory Dynamics Course

The Mechanical Engineering faculty of Rose- Hulman Institute of Technology have devised a series of virtual and hardware experiments designed to enhance student confidence in kinematic and kinetic models, to reduce reliance on intuition, and to show the strengths and weaknesses of computer based models. By leveraging precisely instrumented mechanical systems intended for controls education, we are able to provide brief but significant experiences in experimental mechanics. In this paper, these laboratory experiences will be described, and assessment results will be presented.