Developing a virtual laboratory for a communication and computer networking course

Abstract

Educational institutions face financial challenges in maintaining and upgrading traditional physical laboratories. Moreover, university students have challenges in understanding the theoretical issues involved in communication and networking courses. This paper presents a new computer-aided laboratory to help the students to enhance the practical view of communication and networking systems using computer modelling and simulation and to replace a physical laboratory. The new laboratory was build using a component-based approach that integrates modelling and simulation tools, namely MATLAB, SIMULINK, VPI and OPNET. These components were integrated through the development of graphical user interface. Through this interface, the student navigates through experiments of the laboratory. The new laboratory curricula and interface were tested on students and their feedback showed that the students were satisfied. The students gave comments and suggestions for future improvements.