On A Computer-Based Networked Multimedia Environment for Development of Courseware in Parallel Computing


Ajay Dholakia
Patrick W. Brewer
Elizabeth J. Gibson
Mladen A. Vouk
Donald L. Bitzer
Dept. of Computer Science
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 27695-8206.

Kenneth M. Flurchick
Lawrence A. Lee
MCNC
Post Office Box 12889 3021 Cornwallis Road
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709-2889


Abstract

The rapid growth of research ideas, technologies, and products in parallel computing requires continuing education and training of a wide range of potential users. With the advent of the World Wide Web, network-based education and training became attractive. However, problems in courseware design, development, and delivery must be addressed effectively in order to design educationally sound courseware. In this presentation, we showcase a computer-based networked multimedia environment for the development of courseware in parallel computing. We envision four user classes: authors, instructors, students, and system administrators. A courseware development environment must address the needs of all classes of users in order to gain wide-spread applicability. Easy implementation of traditional computer-based education design principles and methodologies such as tracking student actions, providing feedback, and knowledge testing must be supported. We describe the environment by means of example courses and lessons, and highlight many problems we faced and the solutions we devised. This project is part of a Regional Training Center for Parallel Processing jointly being set up by MCNC-NCSC and NCSU in cooperation with CTC, CRPC, and NPAC.

Presentation Mode and Requirements

The mode of presentation for this poster will be electronic. The presentation will need to access our server via the World Wide Web, and will include multimedia components such as audio, video, animation, and hypertext.

Contact Address

Ajay Dholakia
Dept. of Computer Science
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 27695-8206.
e-mail: ajay@bvcd.csc.ncsu.edu
phone: (919) 515-6535
fax: (919) 515-6497