On-Line Educational Shake Table Experiments

Internet technologies are employed to allow real-time video monitoring, control, and execution of bench-top shake table experiments. Structural models of relevance to education in dynamics and earthquake engineering can be tested remotely over the Internet at any time. The underlying elements of experiment tele-observation and tele-operation/control are incorporated in a newly developed Web site. Tools for graphical display and analysis of recorded model response are included. Related education evaluation and assessment materials are prepared and made available on-line. The Web site currently provides an experimental component in courses such as earthquake engineering and structural dynamics. Based on a developed education assessment framework and the compiled student feedback, the Web site is found to be useful and effective. From this feedback, most students rated their experience as equivalent to the usual hands-on laboratory experiment. Similar applications in other areas of science and engineering will bring valuable experimentation content directly into the classroom, with efficient use of time and resources and the convenience of anywhere/anytime access.