LabVIEW - National Instruments Introduces Education Edition Graphical Software to Inspire Hands-On Learning

“Engineering is a powerful motivator for learning math and science as it makes it possible for students to be innovative and creative while learning,” Dr. Rogers said. “Computers are at the core of almost every experiment, robot or data analysis, and the graphical nature of LabVIEW facilitates this creativity and innovation on the programming side, even for beginning students. I look forward to the day when the teachers are the sceptics and the students use their math, science and engineering toolbox to create their own experiments to convince the teacher.”

LabVIEW Education Edition helps teachers implement engaging, project-based learning as well as connect theory to real-world examples. The new version works seamlessly with key educational hardware platforms such as LEGO® MINDSTORMS® Education NXT, Vernier SensorDAQ and TETRIX™, a metal robot-building system by Pitsco, making it easy for teachers to integrate hands-on robotics, measurements and data acquisition into their curricula. The software’s graphical drag-and-drop paradigm helps students learn key programming concepts and develop analytical skills while gaining experience with technology used in the professional world. The new edition also features its own classroom-ready tools, including the Data Viewer, which graphically displays sensor data; a virtual oscilloscope; and other virtual instruments that give students hands-on experience with a variety of electrical and mechanical engineering techniques. Additionally, LabVIEW Education Edition includes a supporting curriculum and classroom activities directly available from National Instruments, Vernier Software and Technology and LEGO Education.

LabVIEW Education Edition joins a full line of National Instruments educational products that equip educators with hands-on learning technology. LabVIEW, which is at the core of the academic product portfolio, is widely used in leading educational programs including LEGO Education robotics, Project Lead the Way, The Infinity Project and FIRST Robotics. Through collaboration with these programs, National Instruments is inspiring and educating today’s students to become tomorrow’s engineers and scientists.

“National Instruments is inspiring the next generation of innovators that will tackle society’s critical challenges,” said Ray Almgren, Vice President of Academic Marketing at National Instruments. “As a result of our collaboration with Tufts CEEO, LEGO Education, Vernier and others, LabVIEW Education Edition gives educators a learning platform to help their students explore robotic designs, measure phenomena and learn a variety of engineering concepts. By customising LabVIEW features for classroom use, we believe that this new edition will inspire and engage students and help secure a bright future for STEM education.”