Computer enhancement of education in acoustics

Computer enhancement of education in acoustics and noise control is discussed. General ideas pertaining to the integration of computers throughout an acoustics program are presented, and various possible levels of computer-based enhancement are suggested. Some ways in which the computer may be used to enhance formal coursework, laboratory instruction, and graduate research in acoustics are discussed. A model for a “fully enhanced” educational program in acoustics that incorporates computer graphics, numerical methods, computer-assisted experimentation, data base management, and word processing is proposed. Specific examples of computer enhancement in an undergraduate lecture/laboratory course and a graduate lecture/laboratory course are presented. Some of the difficulties encountered in developing a partially computer enhanced program in acoustics are discussed.