The role of simulation in the teaching of communications

Faculty from Virginia Tech and the University of Missouri-Rolla, with support from the NSF/CRCD program, are developing a three-course sequence in wireless communications. The third course in the sequence is devoted to the simulation of communication systems. The simulation course not only provides students with the knowledge required to effectively use simulation in the design and analysis process but also, through the use of projects, gives students needed experience in proposal preparation and in research management. A number of MATLAB-based examples, demonstrations and analysis programs are being developed as a part of this effort.