Internet based instruction for thermal design of electronic products-making a global impact

Over the past year, a multi-institution team has pioneered the development of a series of internet based instructional modules on thermal design of electronic products. These include web based tutorials on specialized topics, case studies, and a virtual laboratory tour. These efforts are summarized, and the best practices usable in other similar undertakings are identified in this paper. The case study groups so far have been within the United States. As the next step in internet based distance learning, we propose to expand the scope of this effort globally. An expanded team including international thermal design experts will develop case study modules on topics including portable electronics and three-dimensional packaging. Also proposed is a series of internet based video conferences, that brings industry experts into the virtual classroom, on topics of current interest