2.1

Reorganize the knowledge system, and restructure the knowledge units basing on numerical solution method.

Theoretical teaching contents are too much and class hours are limited, so the contents need to be simplified. However, the simplification of the theory is not simple to replace the original formulas by the approximate formulas or use linearization method. We should simplify the complicated derivation process and use computer for numerical calculation, even the formulas can be explained by the way of analogy and illustration, which helps students to understand the principles better. From the view point of engineering application, the final requirement is to obtain data, so the accuracy of the data is very important and the advantage of computer data processing is prominent. In order to obtain data conveniently, the knowledge system should be restructured basing on the application orientation and numerical calculation techniques. So we separated contents into many typical units, which construct complete system from simple to complex, and every unit can be solved by numerical method respectively. For example, the imaging process of each sphere is similar for a complex optical system composed of multiple spheres, so we can consider one sphere as a basic unit and use computer to calculate repeatedly. The solution of single spherical imaging is easy, and repeated calculations can be achieved by computer.

2.2

Improve students' analytical and designed ability basing on Computer Aided Instruction (CAI).

CAI method can make all the relevant physical characteristics concentrating on one interface, and the relations among these characteristics can be shown as numerical or graphic forms, which are intuitive and easy to understand. One can try to change different parameters to observe the variation of the results, thus determine the influence factors after many tries. We have named it “search method”, which can be applied for theoretical analysis. In fact, the engineering data does not need to be very accurate, but is permitted in proper accuracy range. The learning process is simplified using “search method” instead of “analytical method”, and all the work including calculation and analysis can be finished by computer. This method is very similar to design, and students must learn to choose proper application software to finish complex calculations. If the multimedia materials such as curves, graphs and animations are created basing on calculations, students even can “first observe then study”. In other words, students can first find regularities and phenomena through computer operation, and then clear the principles through teachers’ explanation. In order to facilitate students’ study, teachers must compile handouts in accordance with the new knowledge units and offer sample documents including numerical algorithms and computer programs for all solvable issues.

2.3

Expand teacher-student interaction from class to outside relying on micro-video lessons platform.

Innovation often begins from imitation. However, it is hard for a student to complete the work from understanding abstract formulas to establishing calculation models, next to designing interface and multimedia independently. Sample documents provided by teachers are always characterized as follows. (i) The software we choose is familiar or easy to learn for students. (ii) The software interface is visualized and the relationship among all the parameters is clear. (iii) The variations of curve, graph and other parameters can be displayed synchronously. (iv) Necessary descriptions are included.

Because one sample document only matches one typical issue, it is impossible to explain all the examples within limited class hours, thus the after-class tutoring is necessary. We have recorded many micro-videos uploading the course website for watching conveniently. The videos are short, always within twenty minutes, and easy to record, so one teacher can finish individually. Course website is not only a good platform for teacher-student interaction, but also is a good way to take advantage of spare time for learning.

2.4

Program new experimental homework, and improve students’ initiative through process evaluation.

The invariant model of “listen-review-exercise” is tiresome for students, and the new learning model of “inquiry-imitation-design” is worth trying. Students not only can listen and ask in class, but also can expand and push relevant content outside class. We believe that inquiry is important than listen, and imitation is an effective method. Students need to do a new type of work named “experimental homework”, which is programmed by teachers and finished by computer. This kind of homework is always related to algorithm, interface, action, and coding, so it is similar to doing experiment. The sample documents are guidance, and doing experimental homework is an innovative training method. In order to prevent mutual plagiarism, teachers have programmed several exercises for each issue, and students were required to do different homework. The new instructional design is especially suitable for process evaluation (also known as formative assessment). The students’ scores can be measured by the completion of their experimental homework, and their daily performance in-class, online discussions and traditional homework. All the records should be archived and convenient to check. The reform of process evaluation has played an important role to improve learning initiative and enhance application ability.