An interactive computer-based tutorial for MATLAB

Abstract

The paper describes the implementation of an interactive computer based tutorial for MATLAB. Students are engaged in learning new concepts and syntax with video, audio, and interactive exercises. The interactive exercises, which are a distinguishing feature of the tutorial, use a specially designed exercise window which has a background software interface to MATLAB. The learner is challenged with problems in the exercise window immediately after covering new concepts. Hints, example solutions, multiple choice quizzes and test problems, requiring the use of proper MATLAB structure and syntax, add to the learning experience. Student input has played an important role in the development of this tutorial. Student feedback has led to useful improvements, which were integrated into the tutorial. Student evaluation results, which are presented in the paper, indicate great promise for this approach to teaching MATLAB and, by extension, other programming languages. The paper also describes various difficulties and problems encountered in developing this computer based tutorial, which may provide some useful guidelines for others who are considering computer based instruction. Note that an Internet site, www.m-tutor.usask.ca is available, where the reader can obtain more information on the tutorial.