This paper on "The Use of Micro-Computer Assignments in Finite Element Education and Training" was presented at the International Conference on Quality Assurance and Standards in Finite Element Analysis - 13-15 May 1987, The Grand Hotel, Brighton.

Summary

The paper explains how practical assignments using finite element software for popular micro-computers, such as the BBC, can be utilised in an introductory course on finite element analysis to highlight and clarify many of the important principles, in particular those relating to the accuracy of the predictions. This micro finite element software is judged to have many advantages and the assignments can be used to satisfy a wide range of learning objectives. These advantages and the specific learning objectives are discussed in the paper.
The paper includes a description of a simple assignment. and the way in which the results can be interpreted and presented in order to highlight those fundamental principles.