Learning Virtual Work Method in Statics in a Nutshell: Demystifying It as a Magic Black Box

Statics is a fundamental course in mechanics and is taken by students in most engineering curricula. At University of Arkansas, learning the energy approach using virtual work is given significant emphasis soon after learning the traditional approach using force and moment equilibrium equations. The transition from the traditional approach to the energy approach requires that students learn a number of relevant key concepts and strategies. Such a transition is often a challenging experience to many students. This paper presents a roundup of relevant basic concepts and the rudiments for effective learning of the virtual work method and aims to demystify the perception of this method as a magic black box. In a nutshell, there are three major steps for applying the virtual work method and a guiding strategy in choosing the virtual displacement for determining the specified unknown. The proposed steps and strategy for implementing the virtual work method have led to much better understanding and more effective learning for students