Animation/quiz approach in computer laboratory for undergraduates in electromagnetics

Most students at the undergraduate level, typically in the 3rd year, find a course in the basics of electromagnetics covering time-varying fields rather difficult. The main problems result from the fact that the fields are functions of space, typically in three dimensions, and of time. Furthermore, at this level the material is relatively abstract and not oriented towards a design or a project. These facts have been long recognized and recently several computer teaching aids have been developed. At the University of Victoria, the electromagnetic field theory is taught for 4 months, 3 hours of classes per week. Until a year ago, there was also a one hour tutorial per week. It was decided to substitute for it, four sessions of computer laboratory of 3 hours each. Additional access to this laboratory is also provided during off-hours. Initially we developed this laboratory using software from CAEME and the University of Utah, adding more quizzes. While generally well received, several problems were experienced. These factors provided the motivation for us to develop a self-contained four part computer software for teaching basic electromagnetics.