Research Initiation Grant: Problem/Project-Based Learning in Statics, a Stepping Stone to Engineering Education Research

这项工程教育研究启动补助金将调查项目和基于问题的学习技术对学生在工程静力学方面的表现的影响，这门课程是大多数大学工程学位课程的“门户”。 该研究将严格调查的学习和动机的影响，使用样本和控制组从工程和学习science.The更广泛的意义和重要性的专业知识，这个项目是，通过了解这些教学方法对学生的影响，在大型，介绍工程课程，它可能会提高学生的表现在大量的工程学校，提供类似的课程。 该提案包括一项发展强有力的研究伙伴关系的计划。 该项目与NSF的战略目标重叠，即通过准备一支具有新能力和专业知识的工程队伍来改变前沿。 此外，NSF为社会创新的目标是通过为教育政策和实践提供信息来创造对社会有用的结果和研究。

This engineering education research initiation grant will investigate the impact of project and problem based learning techniques on student performance in engineering statics, a course that serves as a "gateway" to engineering degree programs at most universities. The study will rigorously investigate the effects on learning and motivation using sample and control groups drawing on expertise from both engineering and learning sciences.The broader significance and importance of this project is that by understanding the impact of these teaching methods on students in large, introductory engineering courses it may be possible to improve student performance at the large number of engineering schools that offer similar courses. The proposal includes a plan to develop a strong research partnership. This project overlaps with NSF's strategic goals of transforming the frontiers through preparation of an engineering workforce with new capabilities and expertise. Additionally NSF's goal of innovating for society is enabled by creating results and research that are useful for society by informing educational policy and practices.