Self-directed learning of mechanical design with multimedia

This paper describes the use of multimedia techniques to assist and encourage students towards self-directed learning. The paper presents an application of multimedia techniques within a mechanical engineering design context through the development of a computer aided tutorial. The tutorial is not intended to replace lectures or traditional teaching methods but to supplement them. At this stage, the system framework and one module dealing with the design of power transmission belts has been completed. The work presented here covers the hardware and software selection, the formulation of a symbolic vocabulary to provide a consistent style for course material, the implementation of a framework for multimedia presentations and the educational considerations involved