Hi all, my name is Olga, and i am an engineering graphics teacher more then 10 years. This teaching experience makes it possible to evaluate and predict the effectiveness of teaching materials. Therefore, it was easy to evaluate the advantage of using a simulator over using traditional training materials.
It is most convenient to formulate the need to use simulators in the form of a question – answer.
How to master the subject of engineering graphics using a simulator? – Create a 3D model simulator for quicker understanding of 2D drawings.
What are the main pedagogical characteristics of a game simulator? – interesting learning in the form of a game, the connection of 2D images with 3D models, the ability to manipulate objects for a better inspection and understanding of the structure of structures.
How is it possible to avoid the limitations and problems associated with modeling-based learning? – it is necessary to support and guide the student in the learning process with the help of feedback, to choose flexibly new tasks taking into account the achieved level of knowledge, to test learning outcomes and to report on learning outcomes with the help of a feedback.
there are some important issues to consider when using simulations for training.
Simulation cannot fully represent / reproduce complex real models.
However, students may consider the model as an adequate means to obtain a certain amount of knowledge.
Students will be more interested and more actively involved in the learning process, working on personally meaningful actions.
Simulations have a positive effect on student motivation and training, help integrate theory with practice and replace real conditions with virtual ones, giving the student the opportunity to study material in a comfortable environment and the time chosen by the student.
The creation and use of simulations mainly depends on the knowledge, attitudes and experience of teachers. Teachers should have the necessary knowledge for modeling and be very interested in using simulations, constantly support students, create the necessary conditions for using simulations and provide appropriate feedback. Thus, the provision of quality professional development with the development of appropriate simulations becomes the leading learning method. But not the only one, because it is necessary to very skillfully integrate and supplement simulations with other teaching methods to ensure the effectiveness of the learning process and sustained interest in the profession.
Hello! Although I don’t use simulations in my teaching I found your blog post interesting and inspiring with many good advices that teachers in any field may find useful when planning and designing both courses and assessment methods. It was good to see that feedback was given such a central role in your simulations and that you emphasize the teachers’ knowledge and experience when doing simulations.
Thank you for your comment. If you need more information about the simulator we create, please follow the link
https://sites.google.com/tktk.ee/virtec/simulator
There you can try to use digihouse simulator.
Hello! I usually use PhET interactive simulations in my lecture. There are interactive simulations for various fields, not only mathematics, but also physics, chemistry, and biology. Conveniently, all simulators are available in different languages. All of my multilingual students can find a suitable option for themselves.
I usually use PhET interactive simulations in my lecture. There are interactive simulations for various fields, not only mathematics, but also physics, chemistry, and biology. Conveniently, all simulators are available in different languages. All of my multilingual students can find a suitable option for themselves.
It’s great to read the point of view of an engineering graphics teacher. The post is very inspiring and reminds me how stimulating and interesting simulations can be for student. Thanks for the bonus material in the comment! It is a great website.
I agree that simulation cannot fully represent / reproduce complex real models or situations but it’s a good way to practice or test without causing harm for anyone. Especially when you have to manage entities or are dealing with emotions or feelings it’s crucial to have a opportunity to “testdrive”. Simulations can also be seen sustainable because you don’t need to use resources for something which might not work.