Advantages and disadvantages of using various computer tools in electrical engineering courses

This paper discusses different computer tools used to help deliver, administer, and teach the material covered in two basic undergraduate courses in electrical engineering. The computer facilities, programs, and tutorials developed are discussed; however, the paper concentrates more on analyzing the results of using these tools in the student learning process. The students’ marks and the results of several student surveys, as well as the teaching staff’s observations, are used to evaluate the usefulness of the different tools and determine their advantages and disadvantages. Some unexpected results regarding the actual students’ use of these tools are also presented and thoroughly analyzed.