A Framework for Developing a Cohesive Set of Remote Laboratories for Distributed Distance Learning Settings

The use of distance learning technology in distributed educational environments has allowed
engineering courses to be delivered to locations and populations that have historically not been
afforded opportunities for involvement. However, efforts to incorporate distance-learning
principles into physical laboratory exercises have not yet led to a general mechanism or
procedure for performing physical labs remotely. The opportunity to be able to fully cover
physical laboratory exercises in distance learning setting would not only significantly enhance
the student learning experience, it would also enable less privileged educational institutions to
offer programs to a much broader target group of potential students who under no circumstances
are able to travel and attend on-site sessions. In this paper, the authors present an overview of
the field of remote or tele-operated physical laboratories how they can be implemented through
today’s technologies. Templates for developing a cohesive set of remote laboratories are
identified along with Nemours IT considerations. In addition to the requirements related to
technology, educational impacts are addressed. An example of a Control Systems experiment is
then presented as an example of a functioning remote laboratory.