Distance Learning and Simulations
Scroll down for resources and options to include in your distance learning development.
Examples of Simulations Used in Education
Simulation tools used for education can be found across numerous industries, with new uses being implemented as technology continue to improve. Many training applications involve training for high-risk or dangerous situations that would be difficult to train for in the real world.
In the field of aviation, [for example] pilots-in-training spend many hours practicing in flight simulators before flying in a real aircraft. Within the simulator, they can become familiar with aircraft controls, and practice flying in different weather and landing conditions. Air traffic controllers also learn with simulation tools. Other areas of the transportation industry have also begun to adopt simulators for technical staff training.
Medical students and professionals use simulation tools to practice surgeries, crisis interventions, and administer prescriptions. First Aid training involves practicing CPR on a programmed dummy that is equipped with simulation tools. This provides students with real-time feedback on their performance to help continuously improve their techniques.
Manufacturing plants include simulation tools to plan, design, and train automated process and manufacturing systems such as PLCs. Simulators are also being used to train staff in kinematic controls in the field of robotics. George Brown College’s School of Continuing Education uses simulation software in their online technical training certificate programs to provide hands-on-training for automation, robotics, electronics, electromechanics, and PLC students. Many more examples of training with the use of simulators can be found across several different fields, with new applications emerging every year.
Future of Simulation Based Learning
With new improvements in technology, new opportunities to apply simulation-based education and training will emerge across several industries. The recent development and usage of virtual reality for training already has positive results, with research indicating that training done through VR is more memorable than training though text and video content. VR has been found to be best suited for cognitive skill and psychomotor skill training relating to remembering and understanding spatial and visual information, and visual scanning skills[8]. https://www.etcourse.com/simulation-tools-transform-education-and-training.html
Teacher Professional Development available through CTELI Innovation (Illinois):
https://user-myCZICl.cld.bz/Converting-a-CTE-Face-to-Face-Lesson-to-Remote-Online-Sept-3
5 E Model lesson plans for remote instruction: https://user-myczicl.cld.bz/Remote-lessons
Distance Learning Resources for CTE
Adobe Rush App – For PC, IOS, Android. Free use of the tool with three exposts available. Otherwise 9.99/mo. |
The American Achieves Network has created is a new, free career exploration course called Quest for Success that can be used by districts across the US to help middle and high school students develop essential 21st-century skills. Through the course, students will be supported to develop the ability to communicate, collaborate, and lead; explore new careers and industry sectors; and learn about themselves to successfully navigate high school, postsecondary education, and career pathways. |
Coding is an essential skill that everyone should have the opportunity to learn. Apple has Swift — a powerful programming language —more intuitive and easy to learn. Apple provides a number of teacher resources and online professional development tools to become an Apple Distinguished educator capable of bringing these coding skills to the classroom. |
ASVAB – Career exploration program includes validated aptitude test and interest assessment. For career guidance and planning. |
Career Pathways Virtual Trailhead – Support students’ work-based learning experiences during e-learning and while in school. P-20 Network created videos which feature people form a wide range of occupations. |
Career Zones – Explore careers related to your strengths, skills and talents. |
CANVAS – Design anything in minutes. The basic plan is free. Offers 250K + free templates. |
For over 20 years, the Cisco Networking Academy program has provided IT skills and career education |
CTE online is an excellent instructional resource maintained by Butte County, CA, Office of Education with collaboration from the Regional Occupational Centers and Program, and funded in part by the California Department of Education. The site includes over 3,400 lesson plans aligned to Common Core, NGSS and CTE Standards, |
Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) CASE is a project of the National Council for Agricultural Education. The project implements a rigorous national curriculum for secondary agricultural education that provides a high level of educational experiences to increase science, mathematics, and English language understanding. CASE develops curriculum utilizing science inquiry for lesson foundation, and concepts are taught using activity-, project-, and problem-based instructional strategies. In addition to curriculum, CASE supports quality teaching by providing extensive professional development for teachers that leads to certification. |
Contextualized Learning Concepts Developed by a pair of teachers in the Loveland (CO) School District, Contextualized Learning Concepts is an interdisciplinary curriculum covering core mathematics concepts team-taught in the context of hands-on projects. Two programs have been developed, and the teachers offer workshops and curriculum to teams of teachers to replicate. Geometry in Construction is a combination of high school geometry and construction. AMPED is a combination of Algebra 1 and Manufacturing Processes, Entrepreneurship and Design. |
Applied Educational Systems (AES) AES provides digital curriculum systems for thousands of CTE health science, business education, career readiness, and computer application classrooms across the United States. The digital curriculum includes hands-on activities, teaching materials, self-paced lessons, projects, and assessments. The digital curriculum saves time with planning and grading, allowing you to spend more quality time preparing students for certifications and their future careers. |
Doceri Interactive Whiteboard – Control your lesson or presentation live with Airplay. |
Ed Puzzle – Make any video your lesson. Standardize the way K-12 teachers deliver their video lessons and allow students to access personalized video learning safely. What makes Edpuzzle unique is its assessment feature that tracks student progress, making it easy for teachers to differentiate their instruction. |
Electude – Our e-learning platform re-imagines the ways technical students learn and retain information. Electude’s learning modules utilize gamification principles and highly interactive resources, including animations and simulations, to create a discovery-based environment that keeps students engaged throughout their training. |
Engineering by Design™ is sponsored by the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA). It is a standards-based national curriculum for grades K-12 that delivers technological literacy in a STEM context.Engineering byDesign™ is built on the Common Core State Standards ( High School / Middle School), Next Generation Science Standards (K-12), Standards for Technological Literacy (ITEEA), Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (NCTM), and Project 2061, Benchmarks for Science Literacy (AAAS). It uses a constructivist instructional model where students learn concepts and principles in an authentic, problem-/project-based environment. |
EntreSkills is an online entrepreneurial education course developed by the New York Small Business Development Center. EntreSkills for Educators is an interactive, web-based program for NYS high schools, BOCES, and homeschool educators. It provides students with an introduction to entrepreneurship and the skills needed to start and operate a business. Educators can create customized lessons and quizzes. EntreSkills for Educators is free for NYS educators. |
The Daniels Fund has partnered with Marketing and Business Administration Research and Curriculum Center (MBA Research), to provide free curricula, instructional materials, and training for teaching ethics and ethical decision-making. The High School Program targets students active in business courses, including participants in student organizations such as DECA and FBLA, but could apply to all CTE programs. The materials include two course-of-study guides and 70 learning modules. |
EVERFI provides standards-aligned online courses to schools at no cost. EVERFI has Financial Literacy programs for both middle and high school, helping students learn topics like Saving, Credit Scores, Interest, Budgeting, and more. The courses are narrated, interactive, and fun for students, with built-in games and quizzes to check for understanding. Teachers can track student progress and access supplemental materials through an online dashboard. You can sign up to get started on their website today. |
Fuel Education offers an innovative approach of online and blended solutions for Career and Technical Education (CTE). It’s a comprehensive, end-to-end program from students’ exploration to preparation for industry-recognized certifications in 24 career pathways. The solutions can support the development of new CTE programs or improve student achievement in existing programs. |
High Schools That Work (HSTW), sponsored by the Southern Regional Education Board, has more than 1,200 sites in 30 states and the District of Columbia following the HSTW Goals and Key Practices to raise student achievement and graduation rates. HSTW provides publications, case studies, site development guides, and other materials to help improve high school curriculum and instruction across the nation. HSTW’s Annual Staff Development Conference, which attracts nearly 4,000 educators each year, is a focal point for year-round professional development. Technology Centers That Work is a companion network that helps CTE centers improve student readiness for college and careers. |
iCEV offers an innovative, learning-on-demand platform, educators have access to pre-built, fully customizable courses complete with multimedia lessons and supporting coursework. The iCEV platform features a comprehensive Career & Technical Education (CTE) curriculum and instructional materials for seven major subject areas. |
Linked Learning, based in California, is a successful approach to education based on the idea that students work harder and dream bigger if their education is relevant to them. Linked Learning integrates rigorous academics that meet college-ready standards with sequenced, high-quality career-technical education, work-based learning, and supports to help students stay on track. Education is organized around industry-sector themes. The industry theme is woven into lessons taught by teachers who collaborate across subject areas with input from working professionals and reinforced by work-based learning with employers. Participating schools follow a core set of principles to engage students in rigorous and relevant learning. |
Machining Solutions – Today’s manufacturers compete by leveraging knowledge. The challenge is to train effectively with simple, powerful tools. Our programs provide the difficult skill requirements that companies so desperately need. Machining Training Solutions has developed a range of products and training courses to simplify your training initiative and help you achieve your goals with confidence. |
MTS Certification – The CNC (computer numeric controlled) Production Specialist certification (CCI) enables participants to show their knowledge of computer-aided programming systems of CAD/CNC coupling and the CIM environment. Other certifications include the CPT Certification which covers the 4 critical work activities: Safety, Quality & Continuous Improvement, Manufacturing Processes & Production, and Maintenance Awareness. Next is the CLT Certification which covers core competency areas: the foundational-level Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) certificate and mid-level Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) Certification. |
MBA Research (Marketing and Business Administration Research and Curriculum Center) is a not-for-profit organization that supports educators in the preparation of students for careers in business and marketing. MBA Research offers course guides, programs of study, learning modules, assessments and an online learning center. |
NAF is a national network of education, business, and community leaders who work together to ensure high school students are college, career, and future ready. Since 1982, NAF has been partnering with high schools in high-need communities to enhance school systems at a low cost by implementing NAF academies – small learning communities within traditional high schools. NAF has grown from one NAF Academy of Finance in New York City to hundreds of academies across the country focusing on growing industries including finance, hospitality & tourism, information technology, engineering, and health sciences. During the 2015-16 school year, nearly 89,000 students attended 716 NAF academies across 36 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In 2015, NAF academies reported that 98% of seniors graduated and 92% of graduates planned to go to college. |
Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship (NFTE) seeks to activate the entrepreneurial mindset and builds startup skills in youth from under-resourced communities to ensure their success and to create a more vibrant society. NFTE offers curriculum, professional development, partnerships, and recognition support. NFTE has a Metro NY location combines high-impact student programs and exceptional teacher training and support across the Tri-State area the opportunity to change young lives through entrepreneurship. |
NOCTI is a provider of industry-based credentials and partner industry certifications for CTE programs across the nation. NOCTI assessments are frequently used to meet Perkins accountability requirements, to guide data-driven instructional improvement, and/or to assist with teacher evaluation systems. |
Oracle Academy supports more than 3.5 million students in 120 countries developing skills from big data to cloud computing–including database, SQL, and Java. Oracle Academy courses are designed to provide students with foundational knowledge and skills in areas of computer science that are universally in high demand across computing jobs and are recommended for use in secondary schools, technical and vocational schools and colleges, and 2- and 4-year colleges and universities. Oracle also provides educators access to free software and free professional development opportunities. Join for free by creating an Institutional Account. |
Practera is a customizable, technology-enabled platform that supports structured virtual and hybrid work-based learning experiences such as Team-based Challenges and Career Development experiences. https://practera.com/ get a free demo
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Project Lead The Way (PLTW) is an activity-, project-, and problem-based curriculum that gives K-12 students a chance to apply what they know, identify problems, find unique solutions, and lead their own learning. Initially focused on engineering, the current 9-12 curriculum offerings include PLTW Engineering, PLTW Biomedical Science, and PLTW Computer Science. PLTW also offers curriculum appropriate for K-5 and 6-8. |
Project Management Institute Educational Foundation The Project Management Institute Education Foundation (PMIEF) is a not-for-profit organization seeking to inspire and empower people to realize their potential and transform their lives and their communities through the use of project management knowledge. The goal is to build a better-prepared workforce through academic and professional development scholarships as well as student and professional awards. A number of schools have integrated their instructional materials into Career and Technical programs. The Institute provides teacher professional learning, a global project learning network and teacher and student learning materials. |
Today’s Class is an interactive online learning system for secondary schools, career centers, and technical colleges. Engaging exercises, step-by-step video demonstrations, and dynamic animations make Today’s Class a fully interactive addition to the instructor’s curriculum. Courses offered include Agriscience, Automotive, Cosmetology, Anatomy and Physiology, Health Science and Workplace Readiness. |
Virtual Construction – National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER). Pearson Virtual Training Webinars -Learn more about your virtual training options. Register for one of the weekly live webinars about NCCERconnect on the Webinars page. |
Virtual Enterprise (VE) is an in-school, live business simulation that offers students a competitive edge through project-based collaborative learning and the development of 21st Century skills in entrepreneurship, global business, problem-solving, communication, personal finance, and technology. This multidimensional, experiential learning model is part of a global network of student-run businesses in over 40 countries, which transform high school students into independent thinking business professionals and their classrooms into offices. |
Virtual Welding – Using the customisable welding simulator, welding beginners and experts alike can complete training modules and learn how to weld or improve their skills effectively and safely while conserving resources. |
Zulama is an engaging. rigorous and standards-based computer science and game design curriculum.Each course contains approximately 80-120 hours of coursework which can build into a Game Design Academy. The Zulama curriculum was created by educators at the world-renowned Entertainment Technology Center at Carnegie Mellon University. It gives teenagers experience with problem-solving and thinking creatively—skills they need to earn jobs in a digital world. Zulama courses each contain activities, projects, and content. The content is delivered through a browser-based platform into classrooms, where students participate in hands-on, project-based activities and assignments. |
Simulation Software Applications for Engineering:Not all the software listed below is available for free; some licenses are only available for purchase at a discounted student price. As a general rule of thumb, check with your school’s campus or department IT services first to see what software you can access for free or at a discount through your institution. Chances are good that many, if not all, of your software needs will be covered by bulk academic licenses. Engineering.com Not all the software listed below is available for free; some licenses are only available for purchase at a discounted student price. As a general rule of thumb, check with your school’s campus or department IT services first to see what software you can access for free or at a discount through your institution. Chances are good that many, if not all, of your software needs will be covered by bulk academic licenses. Engineering.com Altair HyperWorks 14.0 Student Edition Student edition based on the HyperWorks Desktop. Applications for modeling and visualization, analysis, performance data management, mathematical modeling and conceptual design. http://www.altairuniversity.com/get-the-free-hyperworks-14-0-student-edition/
ANSYS ANSYS Student | AIM Student Software for simulation and design. Includes problem-size, limited versions of ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS CFD, ANSYS Autodyn, ANSYS Workbench, ANSYS DesignModeler and ANSYS DesignXplorer. The current release is 17.0 and has the following problem size limits: Structural physics – 32,000 nodes/elements, Fluid physics – 512,000 cells/nodes. http://www.ansys.com/Student
SpaceClaim Student Edition 3D solid modeling for creating, editing and repairing geometry in files from any source. Prepare 3D designs for prototyping, analysis and manufacturing. Check if your school has an academic license. Can also be purchased through the vendor.
http://www.spaceclaim.com/en/Company/Licenses.aspx
Autodesk Fusion 360 – 3D CAD, CAM and CAE for product development. Combines industrial and mechanical design, simulation, machining and collaboration tools from concept through production. http://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/students-teachers-educators
Autodesk AutoCAD Design tools for 3D design, documentation and cloud collaboration, including a mobile app to access designs anytime. http://www.autodesk.com/education/free-software/autocad
Autodesk Revit – Built for Building Information Modeling (BIM) for architecture and infrastructure design and construction. Offers the functions of all Revit disciplines (architecture, MEP, structure) in one interface. http://www.autodesk.com/education/free-software/revit
Autodesk (Misc.) Autodesk also offers a wide range of their other software packages under educational licenses as single programs and bundled software suites. Check out the link for the full list of available software. http://www.autodesk.com/education/free-software/all
Bentley Academic SELECT Software Portfolio – A wide range of software is available through Bentley’s StudentServer, covering civil engineering and design, structural analysis, modeling and visualization and more. https://www.bentley.com/en/learn/for-students-and-educators/academic-programs/products-academic-select http://apps.bentley.com/studentserver/home/index
CD-Adapco STAR-CCM+ Student License CFD solver for fluid or solid flow, heat transfer and stress problems involving multiphysics and complex geometries. Student download includes full version of the software plus access to tutorial and other resources. http://www.cd-adapco.com/industries/academic/student
COMSOL COMSOL Multiphysics Simulation tools for electrical, mechanical, fluid flow and chemical engineering applications and product development. Includes geometry, equation-based and physics-based modeling, meshing, solvers and finite elements. Check with your campus IT services to see if your school has a COMSOL Academic Server license available for students. https://www.comsol.com/comsol-multiphysics
Dassault Systèmes SOLIDWORKS Student Edition http://www.solidworks.com/sw/education/student-software-3d-mcad.htm
Dassault Systèmes DraftSight CAD Software http://www.3ds.com/products-services/draftsight-cad-software/free-download/
Dassault Systèmes Misc. – Dassault also offers a variety of other software for classroom and student use, both for free or for a discounted cost. https://academy.3ds.com/en/get-software
Dassault Systèmes CATIA V5 Student Edition – Design software for 3D CAD product design, simulation, analysis and manufacturing. Available for $99 through Dassault’s 3DS Academy. Current student promotion to download free with promo code. https://academy.3ds.com/en/software/catia-v5-student-edition
Dassault Systèmes Abaqus Student Edition https://academy.3ds.com/en/software/abaqus-student-edition
Dassault Systèmes ICEM Surf Student Edition – Software based surfacing and styling for Class A Explicit surface modeling, surface analysis and design visualization. $49 through 3DS Academy. https://academy.3ds.com/en/software/icem-surf-student-edition
Electricity Circuit Simulation https://listoffreeware.com/free-circuit-simulation-software-windows/#:~:text=%2023%20Best%20Free%20Circuit%20Simulation%20Software%20For,another%20free%20electric%20circuit%20simulation%20software…%20More%20 EDRAW Electrical Circuit simulation https://www.edrawsoft.com/electrical.html?msclkid=39eae2f241751ef8893fbd8d5c31bbd4&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=EdrawMax-Win_EN_Pid(5517)&utm_term=electrical%20wiring%20simulation%20software&utm_content=electrical%20wiring%20software ESTECO ModeFRONTIER Software for multi-objective and multi-disciplinary optimization. Offers workflow and post-processing tools for statistical analysis, data visualization and decision making. One-year license available at a student price with registration in the ESTECO Academy training and resources community. http://academy.esteco.com/academy/become-member FANUC CNC Simulation – Key to conveying the immersive machining experience is the simulation software, powered by ModuleWorks. The Machining Simulation for Workforce Development, essential package, creates a digital twin of the machine tool and simulates the cutting process. Using actual CNC position data, the digital twin provides an accurate and realistic depiction of actual machine behavior. Graphisoft ArchiCAD – BIM software for architects, designers and engineers to design, document and collaborate on building and infrastructure projects. http://www.graphisoft.com/learning/education_gsna/students/young_architect_program/
Maplesoft Maple for Students Math software to analyze, visualize and solve mathematical problems. Check if your school has academic licensing options to access for free; otherwise, the software can be purchased for $99 for a single student user license through the Maplesoft webstore. http://www.maplesoft.com/products/Maple/students/ Maplesoft Web Store Student Catalog
Maplesoft MapleSim Student Edition Modeling and simulation tools for engineering students to build and study realistic designs, system-level interactions, parameter optimization, sensitivity analysis and other design applications. Your school may have an academic license; otherwise the software can be purchased for $99 from the Maplesoft webstore. http://www.maplesoft.com/products/maplesim/academic/
MasterCAM MasterCam – CAM software used professionally worldwide for milling, turning, routing and wire EDM. Applications across industries from prototyping to production parts. Check with your school to see if academic student access licenses are available. http://www.mastercam.com/en-us/Solutions/Educational-Solutions/Educational-Software
MathWorks MATLAB and Simulink Student Suite Bundled software suite including MATLAB, Simulink and ten of the most common add-on products. Applications for prototyping, testing and running models. May be available free through your school, otherwise can be purchased for $99 through the MathWorks website. http://www.mathworks.com/academia/student_version/index.html?s_tid=gn_ac_sv_ov
MathWorks MATLAB Student (unbundled) MATLAB software only. Available for purchase $49 from MathWorks website. Check if your school has a MATLAB campus license.
http://www.mathworks.com/academia/student_version/index.html?s_tid=gn_ac_sv_ov
MSC Software Adams Multibody dynamics simulation and motion analysis for moving parts, load and force distribution and optimization of mechanical systems. http://www.mscsoftware.com/student-editions
MSC Software MSC Nastran with Patran – Finite element analysis solver for multidiscipline simulation and modeling. Perform analysis of stress, dynamics or vibration in complex systems. http://www.mscsoftware.com/student-editions
MSC Software Marc Implicit nonlinear FEA simulation solution including capabilities for contact, large strain and multiphysics. http://www.mscsoftware.com/student-editions
MSC Software Actran
MSC Software Digimat http://www.mscsoftware.com/student-editions
MSC Software MSC Apex Computational parts-based CAE software for performing deformation, stress and normal modes analysis of materials mechanics, structural analysis, natural frequencies or mode shapes. http://www.mscsoftware.com/student-editions
Nemetschek Scia SCIA Engineer for Students Multi-material structural analysis and design software for BIM modeling in architecture and construction engineering. Offers modeling, mesh generator, finite element solving and tools to check for optimization for international and national building codes. Free student license subscription for one year term, renewable each year. https://www.scia.net/en/forms/free-engineering-software-student-license-subscription
OnShape OnShape Free Account
PTC Creo Parametric 3.0 3D CAD software for design, analysis, simulation and product design. http://www.ptc.com/academic-program/products/free-software/creo-college-download
PTC Mathcad Express Mathematics software for performing, analyzing, documenting and sharing engineering calculations. Can do unit conversion, interactive 2D and 3D result plotting, worksheet integration into PTC Creo models and present calculations with graphs, text and images in a single document. Free-for-Life license; includes 30-day trial of full version PTC Mathcad 3.1, after which license defaults to lifetime access PTC Mathcad Express, which is a lighter version of Mathcad 3.1. http://www.ptc.com/engineering-math-software/mathcad/free-download
Siemens Solid Edge Student Edition
Siemens NX Academic Edition
SimScale SimScale Community Engineering simulation platform that operates through your internet browser. Performs a variety of analysis tasks on CAD models, including fluid flow, thermal analysis, acoustic simulation, particle performance and more. https://www.simscale.com/product/pricing/
Trimble SketchUp Pro Student 3D drawing tool software for architecture and construction, including programming, diagramming, design development, documentation and RFI’s. Check with your school if there is a free license agreement; otherwise, the software can be purchased for $49 through the SketchUp website. http://www.sketchup.com/3Dfor/education-students
United States Environmental Protection Agency EPA Net
Wolfram Mathematica Student Edition
Wolfram WolframAlpha
Welding Resources: College of DuPage – online welding library with over 100 videos – https://www.cod.edu/multimedia/streaming/welding-1100.html Miller Electric OpenBook is a free online teaching platform with lots of videos and tests which do allow students to pass and receive industry credentials – https://openbook.millerwelds.com/ weldZcool is a youtube page Marc Hucek, Elgin Community College Professor has been putting together to help his students. By no means are my videos wonderfully put together but the content is accurate – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijyIwb0btPsmj-iIWDdmWg/ Welding safety video series http://safety.lincolnelectric.com AWS (American Welding Society) offers online learning modules. An unlimited subscription is about $5000. www.aws.org |