Supporting of simulation and visualisation in e-learning courses for STEM education

Significant development of information and communication technologies and especially the Internet boom bring new possibilities in education of different subjects of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Information technology has provided new innovations to sustain constructing an artificial educational environment by means of computers. Certain artificial environments sometimes go beyond natural environments, such as simulations and virtual reality, which is a sophisticated educational technology. A computer simulation, which enables essential functions of laboratory experiments to be carried out on a computer, is called a virtual laboratory. This simulation support aspect of visualisation in educational process in different school subjects and it is possible to use it in educational process in different study programs at universities including e-learning courses. Understanding of new notions through visualisation belongs to important factors in the constructivist educational approach. The article introduces suggestions for education in this area and deals with the methods, forms and problems of this kind of education.