Abstract:

In this paper, we continue to develop the virtual prototypes models and their testing for active learning support with Erasmus students. The personalized applications selected by a tutor are used directly for performing active learning at the university’s detached workplace.
When using the virtual prototypes the main strategy of the informatics support is based on the developing informatics tools which are adapted for a pedagogical - engineering content.

On-line learning outcomes materials, as virtual prototypes, were created last years and tested on the informatics environment. Some of them were also investigated as the “active elements” for active learning, especially for writing stage rapports including practical projects. The practice showed that the testing of issues such as the practical placement stage work can result in an active learning process. It would not be possible to do it without computers.

The domain of investigation is the virtual prototyping. The virtual product development replaces traditional material object test with digitized form product by building product’s digital model. It offers to analyze product’s static and dynamic characteristics on the circumstance of digital state, and rebuild and improve the original design. Virtual prototype technology is a kind of engineering method which can shorten new product development cycles by replacing cost physical prototype with virtual digital model.

Virtual prototyping technique, as method for active learning informatics support, requires the further refinement and also the enhancement of students’ informatics skills, as well.

Keywords:

Active learning, virtual prototypes, practical projects.