Teaching Historical Perspective Using A Term Project On An Influential Structural Engineer

Abstract

Details are given on a class project that requires students to prepare a written report and oral presentation on an influential structural engineer. The project includes an extensive peer assessment process completed by the students. The project helps to fulfill the "Contemporary Issues and Historical Perspectives" outcome of the newest version of the Body of Knowledge. The project also seeks to improve student communication skills, thus helping to fulfill the "Communication" outcome. Assessment was conducted to determine the impact of the project in fulfilling these outcomes. Results of the assessment indicate that the project has a significant effect in developing historical perspective by the students. However, assessment results for the communication outcome indicate the project has minimal impact in improving communication skills.