Using tablets to enhance synchronous distance learning classes

One of the major challenges with teaching synchronous distance learning classes is engaging students at the remote locations. The difficulty lies in both transmission of high quality lecture content, as well as involving the remote students in problem solving exercises. This is particularly important for teaching courses such as fluid mechanics in which students greatly benefit from in-class problem solving. A possible solution is to use computer tablets in the classroom using software which allows the students to view the lecture material on their own devices. This has been used in several distance learning fluid mechanics classes. In-class problem solving is facilitated by the instructor providing the problem statement on the tablet screen and the students working on the solutions directly on the tablet. The instructor is able to view any student’s solution electronically and provide real time feedback to the class. To evaluate the effectiveness of the tablets in a distance learning classroom, two sections of a statistics class were taught: with and without tablets. Relative metrics for the student performances in the classroom will be provided.