On The Use Of Equation Solvers, Interactive Software, And Hands On Projects In Integrated Sophomore Engineering Courses

Abstract

The long-term objective of this effort was to fundamentally change the quality of engineering instruction and student interactions-through the use of newest education technologies in the classroom. Three principal areas of student impact were identified. These were: (1) Improvement of the quality of engineering students, (2) Development of student social skills, and (3) Enhancement of student motivation to continue the learning experience. This paper recounts how equation solvers, interactive software, and hands-on projects were incorporated into sophomore level integrated courses and documents the observations, lessons learned, and conclusions from the experience. Student participants improved in understanding and applying fundamental principles, developed the ability to identify and define problems, knew how to evaluate alternative solutions, were better trained to communicate ideas, both orally and written, and were able to use technology for setting, solving, and presenting problems. In addition, the students enhanced their social skills by working in teams and by enhanced student/faculty interactions.

Balancing Classical Solutions With Computer Technology In The Undergraduate Geotechnical Curriculum

“…5,6,7 This can be difficult when hardware or software problems arise or when student questions on software usage result in loss of valuable class and instructor time thereby limiting coverage of technical content. 8 Civil engineering programs using an integrated course format 9,10 show how separate Page 9.250.1…”

“…Students liked the self-paced format, bi-weekly meetings with the instructor and assignments and exercises using the software. 9 Although other options are available, 8,9,10 most civil engineering educators will need to incorporate computer usage into their discipline specific courses. To successfully accomplish this, faculty must consider which classical solutions most benefit student learning and how they should be utilized.…”