Flash Based Interactive Learning Of Fundamental Fourier Analysis

Introduction Fourier analysis is an important fundamental concept for many engineering disciplines, such as digital signal processing, communications, and digital image processing 1,2,3 . The analysis involves transforming signals between time-domain and frequency-domain. Many learners have difficulties in understanding or visualizing the relationships between these two domains and some basic Fourier concepts and operations as well. In traditional approaches, teaching the basic concepts of Fourier analysis with the use of only still images and descriptions is not an easy task and not very effective either. For example, the convolution operation of two time-domain signals can be better demonstrated with animation. Moreover, since most signals are generally controllable by some adjustable parameters, such as time period, frequency, or sampling rate, the learning will be more effective if learners can adjust these parameters and readily observe the results of the changes. Obviously, the interactive learning approach will provide learners with a better understanding of fundamental Fourier concepts.