Interactive On-line Undergraduate Laboratories Using J-DSP

Abstract—An interactive Web-based simulation tool called Java–DSP (J-DSP) for use in digital signal processing (DSP)-re-lated electrical engineering courses is described. J-DSP is an object-oriented simulation environment that enables students and distance learners to perform online signal processing simulations, visualize Web-based interactive demos, and perform computer laboratories from remote locations. J-DSP is accompanied by a se-ries of hands-on laboratory exercises that complement classroom and textbook content. The laboratories cover several fundamental concepts, including transforms, digital filter design, spectral analysis, multirate signal processing, and statistical signal pro-cessing. Online assessment instruments for the evaluation of the J-DSP software and the associated laboratory exercises have been developed. Pre/postassessment data have been collected and analyzed for each laboratory in an effort to assess the impact of the tool on student learning. Index Terms—Assessment instruments, distance learning, in-teractive digital signal processing (DSP) demos, online signal processing laboratories, tools to embed digital signal processing (DSP) simulations in Web lectures, Web-based simulations. I