Simulation tools to support the teaching of electromagnetic theory for engineering

Abstract

Teaching of core engineering courses involves significant challenges due to the complexity of illustrating abstract concepts while maintaining student attention, particularly in the context of virtual learning. However, virtual modalities also allow to take advantage of simulation tools to visualize such concepts. This paper discusses the experience of different didactic strategies implemented in a virtual environment for teaching electromagnetic theory in the Electromagnetism I course at the School of Electrical Engineering. The strategies implemented included synchronous and asynchronous sessions, forums, simulations, among others. The effectiveness of the strategies was evaluated using student surveys at the end of each semester. The results of this experience will be a useful resource for future versions of the course, both for teaching and evaluation activities. It was concluded that active learning allowed students to understand abstract concepts in a visual way, which resulted in a better academic experience.