Software Integrated Instruction of Solid Mechanics

This paper presents the role of JupyterLab, a web-based, free Python coding platform, in solving and analyzing complicated problems of solid mechanics in real-time during classroom lectures. The objectives of using JupyterLab are five-fold: (a) to address the difficulty in explaining the interconnection of multiple variables that affect the solution to solid mechanics problems from a holistic standpoint, (b) to discuss the core concepts of solid mechanics using a set of generalized problems and their solutions with easily modifiable input parameters, (c) to help students attain the ability to critically think about the course concepts and apply them to analyze complex problems, (d) to test students' ability to apply the concepts covered in class to problems that are outside the scope of the course topics, and (e) to promote awareness of outlier situations wherein traditionally taught tools are inapplicable. The ultimate goal is to amplify the learning outcomes of the course and actively engage students in the learning process, helping them prepare for the growing AI-inclined job market in the engineering sector.