Describes the changes in teaching methods in engineering classrooms over the last 60 years and implementations by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) in curriculum not only of mathematics, science, and engineering fundamentals, but also communication and lifelong learning skills. Lists ABET Engineering Criteria required…

Discusses the quality of instruction for communication skills and creative thinking skills in engineering education and the difficulties caused by the single-subject approach in different engineering majors. Provides alternative solutions to the problem such as irrelevant teaching methods, difficulties in implementing technology in classrooms, and…

Describes the learning style inventory and learning cycle developed by David Kolb. Discusses the learning cycle's four stages as concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. Offers an example from a chemical engineering class in which Kolb's ideas are used in an effort to improve instruction.…

Questions teaching effectiveness in higher education and focuses on five points for the appraisal of teaching effectiveness: (1) educational goals; (2) performance criteria; (3) assessment process; (4) evaluation process; and (5) educational scholarship. Explains how to evaluate teaching effectiveness. (Contains 14 references.) (YDS)

Discusses factors related to developing successful programs for training faculty in various aspects of college teaching, indicating that some tangible advantage for faculty participating in such programs is needed. Illustrates this by showing how a successful program was related to paying faculty one week's salary for attending the program. (JN)

Explains the status of undergraduate instruction at research institutions in the past half century and discusses effective teaching strategies and methods. Lists components to create a positive teaching climate for instructors. (Contains 28 references.) (YDS)

The Personalized System of Instruction, known as the Keller Plan, is compared with the mastery learning approach. Learning concepts of both are discussed, as well as differences, difficulties, and effectiveness of each method. (SA)

An experimental course in college teaching for graduate students in engineering and the natural sciences has been offered by the University of Texas at Austin. The program has also included students from a wide variety of academic disciplines. Most of the assignments and activities undertaken have been experientially based, but several tests and…

Progress on the University of Texas personalized system of instruction (PSI) project is described. Twelve courses in the College of Engineering and five in other colleges were developed for PSI under a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation. Each of those courses has now been offered at least once, thus making it possible to begin evaluating…

A project was undertaken at the University of Texas at Austin to underwrite expenses incurred with the planning and implementation of a curriculum for developing teaching skills among students interested in teaching science and engineering. In this project report information is provided on the following: course goals and activities, course…