The education of engineers involves an integral component
of hands-on (interactive) work along with delivery of
theoretical (sometimes abstract) concepts [3].
This is also true for many science and technology based
subjects such as Physics which include a compulsory
experimental component [4]. During an actual laboratory
experiment, learners enjoy physical contact with the laboratory
apparatus (equipment) as well as working together
in groups.
The Computer Aided Engineering Education (CAEE)
concept shown graphically (shaded box) in Fig. 1 is concerned
with the use of computer aids for the enhanced,
interactive delivery of educational materials in the field of
engineering while maintaining existing pedagogical contents
and standards. The CAEE concept consists of two
separate components (one for classroom and the other for
practical laboratories) related with a similar synergy to
that which exists between classroom teaching and practical
hands-on laboratory classes.
The CAEE component for hands-on laboratory practical
work focuses on the use of video-based augmented reality
on mobile devices/platforms with a goal of replicating as
much as possible the experience obtainable from an actual
physical laboratory through the innovative use of augmented
reality technology running on mobile devices