Remote controlled learning: MSU computer engineering labs going online as part of pilot program

Montana State University computer engineering students will soon have the ability to control real laboratory equipment from the convenience and comfort of their home computers, thanks to a $148,000 grant from the National Science Foundation.

The two-year grant will help the MSU College of Engineering determine whether students learn from Web-based laboratory courses as effectively as they do from hands-on courses, said the grant’s principal investigator, computer engineering assistant professor Brock LaMeres.

In addition, LaMeres’ research could one day lead to more distance learning options for students at other Montana colleges and even high schools by providing remote access to advanced scientific equipment.

"All of our engineering classes have a major laboratory component to reinforce the classroom concepts," he said. "But now students are wanting more online classes."

By Michael Becker, MSU News Service

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