Impact of Project Based Learning in Introduction to Engineering/Technology Class

Project based learning (PBL) has a proven record as a teaching tool. Concepts that are often hard to grasp are made easy by the use of project based activities. The constructivism learning theory suggests that people learn better by actively participating in the process of learning. The Introduction to Engineering and Engineering Technology class has been modified to include project based learning kits to engage freshmen early on in the program. The goal is to demonstrate students the link between the scientific principles and their engineering applications. The course is team taught by faculty from various engineering and technology disciplines to provide students experience related to multiple fields to help them identify their career discipline. Students work in groups to build devices and test them. Student evaluations indicate a marked increase in learning and comprehension of scientific principles and engineering concepts. The paper will discuss the design and development effort that have gone into creating the PBL kits that were developed related to Marine and Maritime industry. It will also discuss implementation within the course and results from pre and post surveys from students