Teaching dynamics using interactive tablet PC instruction software

Is there an advantage of using interactive tablet PC software as opposed to more traditional teaching methods? This work is an innovative use of tablet PC technology to teach an introductory dynamics course. Each student in the classroom used a tablet PC as did the instructor. In addition to using the tablet PCs, each lecture was recorded using screen capture and made available on-line. The first goal of this project was to provide students with better resources outside of class. The second goal was to try to better engage students using active learning exercises on the tablet PCs during class. A post course survey was used to help assess the effectiveness of the new teaching media.