Implementation of a Modular Hands-on Learning Pedagogy: Student Attitudes in a Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer Course

J. K Burgher; D Finkel; O. O Adesope; B. J Van Wie

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Implementation of a Modular Hands-on Learning Pedagogy: Student Attitudes in a Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer Course

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Implementation of a Modular Hands-on Learning Pedagogy: Student Attitudes in a Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer Course

J. K Burgher, D Finkel, O. O Adesope and B. J Van Wie

Journal of STEM education, Vol.16(4), p.44

2015

Abstract

College Science

Concept Formation

Hands on Science

Instructional Effectiveness

Laboratory Equipment

Learning Modules

Mechanics (Physics)

Science Instruction

Science Laboratories

Scientific Concepts

Student Attitudes

Student Surveys

Teaching Methods

Chemical Engineering

College Students

This study used a within-subjects experimental design to compare the effects of learning with lecture and hands-on desktop learning modules (DLMs) in a fluid mechanics and heat transfer class. The hands-on DLM implementation included the use of worksheets and one of two heat exchangers: an evaporative cooling device and a shell and tube heat exchanger. A survey was administered at the end of the course to assess student attitudes and self-identified conceptual understanding for the (DLMs) and lecture. Results indicate that 72% of students receiving the hands-on DLM treatment thought it helped more than lecture; of those receiving lecture, 40% thought that it helped more than the DLM to learn heat transfer concepts. With respect to conceptual understanding, 72% of students agreed they understand and can apply principles related to heat exchangers well, with 28% unsure of their own conceptual understanding. Nearly a third of the free responses indicate students also want lecture in the classroom, with a corollary that the DLMs are only effective after a foundation in heat transfer has been established. Thus, one practical implication of the study is that lectures should first be used to explicate concepts and provide a good foundation that can then be developed further through the use of modular DLMs.

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Title: Implementation of a Modular Hands-on Learning Pedagogy: Student Attitudes in a Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer Course
Creators: J. K Burgher
D Finkel
O. O Adesope - Washington State University, Teaching and Learning, Department of
B. J Van Wie
Publication Details: Journal of STEM education, Vol.16(4), p.44
Academic Unit: Education, College of
Publisher: Institute for STEM Education and Research
Number of pages: 11
Identifiers: 99900606953101842
Language: English
Resource Type: Journal article

Implementation of a Modular Hands-on Learning Pedagogy: Student Attitudes in a Fluid Mechanics and Heat Transfer Course

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