This paper describes and demonstrates the use of modern design tools on the design and implementation of contemporary communication systems for educational or research purposes. Specifically, a case study on the design, simulation and implementation of QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation), FSK (Frequency Shift Keying) and OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing) transceivers is presented. This is achieved through the integration of Matlab/Simulink tools with Texas Instrument DSP (Digital Signal Processors) development kits. An approach like this, recommends a fully compatible and flexible design environment, which can be easily adopted for educational purposes