Using Multimedia to Teach Multimedia in Computer Engineering

Wayne Burleson
Associate Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Amherst, Massachusetts
burleson@ecs.umass.edu

We already use many types of learning technology in our courses (video-based distance learning, software labs, the World Wide Web, e-mail, etc.). However, we saw a niche for developing WebDVD-based modules in the area of multimedia systems,

Multimedia Systems: An Integrated Modular Curriculum Sample Module: Video Coding Sample Topic within a Module: Video Coding Using MPEG University of Massachusetts Amherst MANIC

to create a multimedia systems archive that any of our faculty can use in their courses. These modules can also be used as short courses or for distance learning as well. Our motivation is that multimedia is a new, exciting area that spans many disciplines within computer engineering....the design of the systems that enable multimedia should be a primary part of any computer engineering curriculum....The six modules are designed to introduce multimedia concepts into traditional computer engineering courses. These modules use a combination of interactive Digital Video Disks (DVDs) and Web technology, providing high-quality audio and video combined with hot-links to the World Wide Web. Besides the Web-links for timely materials, the modules present video lectures and demonstrations. These modules allow for demonstrations of multimedia and hands-on interaction by students that would otherwise require expensive labs...

If you have any questions about our project, you can contact me at: burleson@ecs.umass.edu