A network for learning about networks: a model and an innovative approach to teaching network engineering

We propose a model for design of courses in which students need to develop understanding not just of theory, but also of what happens in complex, distributed real world environments. Advances in network technologies (e.g., Grid technologies, and “the Cloud”) provide opportunities to simulate complex models and to use real, large-scale data sets in learning activities. We apply our model to design of Network Engineering courses in a way that provides different sequences of study for students from different backgrounds, interests, and learning styles, but which enables all students to complete a course of study that balances understanding of theory of how networks work with what happens when a network is implemented in a real operational context. We consider how such a model might be implemented by a network of learning institutions, organizations, educators and learners.