Discussed is an alternative to the traditional lecture-homework-quiz method of instruction. Innovative techniques applied in a statics class are described. A comparison between the innovative course and the same course taught traditionally is provided. (KR)

The use of professional software is an integral part of a student's education in the mining engineering curriculum at The Pennsylvania State University. Even though mining engineering represents a limited market across U.S. educational institutions, the goal still exists for using this type of software to enrich the learning environment with…

A great deal of similarity exists between engineering and technology education. Many schools and state education administrators are working to bring engineering principles and problem-solving approaches into the technology education classroom. More and more, technology education is viewed as a breeding ground for tomorrow's new crop of engineers.…

Problem-based learning (PBL) is an instructional methodology placing primary emphasis on students solving realistic problems in a team-oriented environment. In this article, authors discuss using PBL to integrate a language for specific purposes (LSP) track into an undergraduate biological engineering curriculum as a way to prepare students for an…

This paper describes a reality-based learning project in which sophomore accounting and engineering students collaborated in interdisciplinary teams to design and build a million-dollar waterslide park. Two weeks into the project, the teams received a briefing from an industrial panel of engineers, bankers, entrepreneurs, and other professionals.…

The Young Scholars' Program of the National Science Foundation is designed to stimulate and extend the interests in science and mathematics of students entering grades 7 through 12. An additional goal of the program is to encourage them to investigate and pursue careers in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology. The program strongly…

This study compared cooperative learning with individual learning in an introductory college electrical engineering course, using attitudinal and cognitive measures. Cooperative learning activities were implemented in homework assignments in one section of the course, while individual homework assignments were used in two other sections. A total…

This book contains 12 case histories, each based on a real-life problem, that show how a manager can use common sense, knowledge, and interpersonal skills to solve problems in human performance at work. Each case study describes a worker's problem and provides background information and an assignment; solutions are suggested. The following cases…

In 1979, the Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge) began the Recruitment into Engineering of High Ability Minority Students program (REHAMS). The purpose of the program was to give students a head start in their college courses while providing them with an opportunity for counseling and tutoring. To balance the curriculum's scientific emphasis…

Various methods of learning employed to solve problems in mechanical engineering are presented. Results indicate that video recording and playback to students is the most effective instruction process. A comparison of analytical thinking to rote memory was made, and variables which affect learning, such as personality, are discussed. (NTIS)

A comprehensive test of problem-solving skills and attitudes in electrical engineering was administered pre-course and post-course to undergraduates at the University of Salford who followed laboratory courses involving contrasting teaching approaches. Results indicate that United Kingdom students perform best in courses with emphasis on…

Explains how multiple choice test items can be devised to measure higher-order learning, including engineering problem solving. Discusses the value and information provided in item analysis procedures with machine-scored tests. Suggests elements to consider in test design. (ML)

Describes how teachers can use wheels of tricycles, bicycles, and trains to stimulate children with mathematics, relative position, and engineering concepts. Techniques are offered for measuring circumference of a bicycle wheel, gear ratios, and pedal wheel circumferences. Comparative data are given for various sized wheels. (Author/SA)

Describes an attempt on the part of an engineering faculty to develop problem-solving skills in its undergraduate students. It includes a course description in problem solving. (SA)

Details a project in which successful DNA analysis techniques were developed by students and their teacher in a rural school. Focuses on a study of sage grouse. (DDR)