Methodologies and tools for learning digital electronics

This paper presents methodologies and tools characterizing a computer-based learning environment developed by the authors for an introductory course in digital electronics. Different methodologies support all phases of the formative process. Special emphasis is put on a progressive use of simulation techniques to stimulate learner activity and overcome some difficulties inherent to the subject. The learning tools implement four instructional methodologies: expositive, demonstrative, interactive, and practical. The first relates to the presentation of theory, concepts and other information and it is based on multimedia hypertext enriched with animation. In the second, scripts underlying the schematics and algorithms just introduced demonstrate their behavior. In the third, the learner interacts with properly designed tools to practice and test her/his level of proficiency. Network and algorithm design and analysis are the targets of the last methodology, based on the use of custom-built general purpose simulators. The learning tools are interconnected by a hypertext shell, which provides a homogeneous appearance and pedagogical continuity. To gain a better operational understanding of the issues described, a set of working examples of the tools, linked directly to the text introducing them, is provided as an essential part of the paper.