Using MUTISIM software to reinforce superposition analysis technique for electrical circuits

MULTISIM is a computer simulation software that among other things simulates the performance of electric circuits. This article demonstrates using MULTISIM as an educational tool to enhance student learning process. The specific example subject demonstrated in this article is the Superposition circuit analysis theory. The traditional textbooks only demonstrate the final result of a circuit analysis using MULTISIM. The approach taken in this article is different. This article demonstrates using the software as an aid to check the intermediate steps of the hand calculation techniques that must be used if no computer software were being used. An example which was a part of a lecture and instructions for a lab assignment is presented where all steps of using the superposition technique when multiple power sources are present in a circuit were verified by simulating the steps in MULTISIM. By using the mixed approach of using a hand calculation technique and MULTISIM, the students have the opportunity to verify the accuracy of every step of the process which will improve the students' learning and will allow the students to find and correct their own errors. The added self-reliance on the part of the students is especially useful in a Distance Learning course. The end of the semester comments by students were positive. The students indicated that their learning process improved by the use of the MUTISIM software.