Role of virtual laboratory-based assignments in improving the quality of academic preparedness among bachelor degree students specialising in "Info-communication technologies and communication systems"

Taking into account the importance of laboratory courses for technical education, the article emphasizes the importance of laboratory practicum, specifies advantages and disadvantages of the use of laboratory bench assignments, and identifies prerequisites for the implementation and benefits of virtual assignments. Based on the academic experience of the Chair of Info-Communication Technologies and Communication Systems the authors explore the possibilities and practical application of PSIM for working out virtual laboratory assignments in such courses as «General Theory of Communication)), «Digital Signal Processing)) and «Circuit design of telecommunication devices». The authors further provide evidence that with the use of the virtual practicum, the quality of bachelor degree students' academic preparation has significantly improved.