D-r.V. Tsingouz, Prof. M. Bank
Department of Communication Engineering, Holon Academic Institute of Technology

Interactive Computer Based Training System

We discuss Complex Methods of Performing Practical Studies (Exercises, Laboratory Works, etc.) in accordance with the studied theoretical course. Using computer models as the basic element.

Under modern conditions studying methods should immediately respond to the constantly innovating technologies and technical means realizing them. These methods should contain means (elements) permitting to carry out speedy, flexible and necessarily effective reconstruction for scientific and technological novelties. As it will be shown later the methods considered in the report, the most flexible element of solving the mentioned task is the simulation of the technological problem under consideration as an effective means for deeper penetration into the essence of the phenomenon.

The authors suggest the system of training with application of the computer simulation technique, including the following main units (see Fig. 1):

1. Program Simulation,
2. User Database,
3. User Interface.

Thus, the database provides the way to keep track of the execution of separate stages according to the given order, storage of ratings for each stage, and other necessary information. The user interface provides handling of execution of the auxiliary programs, programs of simulation and with information provision.

In the report we shall dwell on problems of improvement of learning efficiency in its practical part (laboratory operations and exercises) and, in particular, on learning technical disciplines. Efficiency of the suggested technique manifests itself in learning modern technical courses which basing on complex (difficult) theories and complex equipment.

Let's consider the suggested concept of constructing of practical methods of training.

1. checking of general theoretical knowledge on the subject studied. In this case not only a simple repetition of the information obtained at the lectures is important, but, what is more important, the determination of rigid connection between the theory and its introduction into practice could be established;
2. doing exercises as such (carrying out necessary calculations, plotting);
3. checking the calculation results and presentation of the results.

Thus computer models are used in two ways: for simulation of the teachers operations ("Virtual Teacher") and for simulation of investigated technological processes. In the latter case ("Virtual Experiment") - is a floppy unit of the technique permitting to provide deeper learning of practical aspects of the theory in view of new achievements of science and technology within the investigated area.

In the researches associated with the technique of teaching not only contents of course and a method of its presentation, are important but also the way of visual representation of the material. The letter is of prime importance in the methods associated with simulation. It is an independent subject to which our second report is devoted.

One of the versions of program implementation of the considered technique is given in Fig.2 as a sequence of the working windows formed by the program developed by the authors.

It is necessary to take into account the usage of simulation is not limited only to its application for practical mastering of the investigated theoretical course. The student obtains also some knowledge of simulation possibilities and its efficiency for a real designing of complex objects. It, in turn, will allow him to use in his practical activities the advantage of simulation for the analysis of existing complex instruments and systems, and also for creating new systems.

Figure 2.