This paper described a project that introduces university
students to the high technology fields of microelectronics
through the use of web-based "hands-on" experiments. It is
expected that the outcomes of this study shall have significant
impact on the future practices in teaching microelectronics in
distance education mode. The proposed methodology allows
students to explore microelectronics course starting from
underlying science, to device physics, to process and extract
SPICE model parameters essential for the circuit design. This
research contributes to the development of an interactive
Technology CAD course using "online" TCAD laboratory and
conventional class room teaching. The new technology CAD
course integration with the virtual wafer fabrication (VWF) in
designing microelectronic devices, process and circuit
simulation is shown to enhance student's interest. The authors
believe that the improved students' academic performance and
their positive attitude towards the TCAD course are mainly due
to the integration of simulation tools in teaching.