An Effective Approach For Teaching Aerospace Structures

Abstract

This paper discusses a method aiming at providing tailored education that would increase students understanding of the material and enhance their success. The method is being applied to COE 3001 (Mechanics of Deformable Bodies), the second structures course in Aerospace Engineering undergraduate program at the Georgia Institute of Technology. COE 2001 (Statics) is the first class in structures and introduces students to the elements of statics in two and three dimensions, free-body diagrams, distributed loads, centroids and friction. In COE 3001 the students are further exposed to stress and strain analysis applied to beams, vessels, pipes, and combined loading, stress and strain transformations, beam deflection as well as column buckling. The method consists of weekly problem sessions, a test evaluation concept and a tailored workplan. The weekly problem sessions are conducted by teaching assistants. The students are given a chance to discuss with the TA a set of suggested textbook problems assigned by the instructor as well as any other recommended problems pertaining to the topics covered in the lectures. These include practical problems that are recommended by the instructor as bonus problems. The students are encouraged to submit their work on the suggested problems a few days after the problem sessions for evaluation by the TA. During this period the TA maintain an open-door policy where students can have one-on-one interaction.