A Multi-Instructor Study of Assessment Techniques in Engineering Mechanics Courses

Abstract

joined the faculty at Michigan State University in 1992. He currently serves as the Associate Chair of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. His research focus is on pedagogy, design optimization of large and complex systems, and design for sustainable agriculture.

Effect of Mastery-graded Exams on Student Outcomes in Statics and Mechanics of Solids Course

“…Several key differences between the implementation in this study and the implementation in [1,2] are noted here:…”

“…Averill, et. al. at Michigan State University (MSU) [1,2] have implemented an approach to homework and exams in their mechanics of materials course that aims to meet these goals. Sharing their same frustrations, here at Cornell University we have piloted an intervention based on their work.…”

Board 96: The Seven C’s of Solving Engineering Problems

“…Hopefully they do initially, until those steps become instinctual. It is preferable for a student to memorize a process for solving a broad set of problems than to memorize the particular solution to a few selected problems [1].…”

“…The Seven C's were introduced to students in several Mechanics of Materials classes during a recent multi-year study on assessment methods [1]. Though they were not a formal part of the study itself, it was observed that the C's played a key role in student success.…”

“…By introducing these learning categories early and referring to them often, they gradually became part of the vocabulary both in the class and in office hours. The remarkable improvement of student performance in the study [1] is largely attributed to the motivation of students to study differently due to the modified assessment approach. Nevertheless, based on observations and discussions with students, it is believed that using the structure of the Seven C's played a role in helping these motivated students to achieve the desired level of problem solving proficiency.…”