Implementation of a virtual laboratory practice for familiarization in the Teaching-Learning Process in Hydraulic Engineering

Abstract

Since 2000, the Hydraulic Research Center and the Center for Advanced Education Reference at CUJAE have been developing the MultiH.Virtual laboratory. This laboratory contains 34 virtual labs used throughout the Hydraulic Engineering program, reflecting a trend in the integration of Information and Communication Technologies into education. A new 3D version of MultiH.Virtual has recently been implemented, featuring two labs from the Pipe Bank. It also includes a virtual lab designed to familiarize students with a new work environment, enriching the user experience in terms of technology, system operation, and the subject matter. This virtual lab offers a guided tour with instructions that aid students in understanding the theory and is dynamically integrated into the teaching and learning resources for the Introduction to Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering course. Similarly, it outlines the steps to follow during the experimental procedure of the technological process, ensuring successful practical application and positive learning outcomes. At the undergraduate level, it provides essential support in the teaching and learning process, both in person and remotely. Students can interact with the software at any time, from anywhere, facilitating e-learning and theoretical-practical learning. This article aims to implement a virtual familiarization exercise for the teaching and learning process in the theoretical and practical training of hydraulic engineers.