Physics Professor Utilizes D2L to Enhance Course with Associated Lab

Online courses are becoming more common today with technology advancements. Students are capable of completing items done in the classroom from the convenience of their own home. With this in mind, the Department of Physics at Eastern has outfitted one of its general education courses with an associated lab online.

Mr. Nenad Ilic

Nenad Ilic, the department’s academic support professional, is using the learning management system Desire2Learn and the voice and video calling software Skype in a unique way. The general education course Adventures in Physics (PHY 1052G) now comes with an associated lab (PHY 1053G) combined into an online format.

Ilic has taught a variety of physics courses including general education courses covering mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetisms. “Technology provides an opportunity to reach a broad audience and train students to develop a variety of computer skills,” he stated. “Delivering a course online requires students to be more proactive, post comments, ask questions, and work more independently.”

The online course is based on the D2L platform and combines the functions of working in a classroom with online learning. Lectures that would take place throughout the week in a classroom setting are available as study modules for the students with homework assignments, tests, and sometimes essay topics; all based on the study modules.

The laboratory section of the course is online as well. When the students register for the course, they are instructed to order a lab package. This includes all the equipment needed to complete laboratories at home – with the exception of supplies like water and cups. For the course, students are required to complete 12 labs using the provided lab kits. The labs entail experimental procedures, data collection, analysis, and answers to provided questions. Students are required to submit lab reports as well as complete an online teleconference using Skype to demonstrate they have full understanding of the lab material.

Ilic noted: “The online course offered provides an opportunity for the university to reach a wider audience for students who cannot attend regular on campus classes and students of other universities that can obtain the necessary credits at their institution.” 

For more information, contact the Physics department via email: physics@eiu.edu.