Strengthening STEM Laboratory Assessment Using Learner Portfolio and Electronic Assessment

Description Weekly lab reports are an integral part of the foundational engineering curriculum. In many conventional science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) curricula, students are required to write a report after each weekly experiment, documenting the lab process. Recent research by Vargas and Hanstedt (2014), however, indicates limitations of weekly lab reports, including reduced effectiveness …

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Use Learner Created Videos for Student Engagement in a Flipped Classroom

Description It has been a challenge to engage students in large-enrollment classes, especially in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. The larger the class size is, the less likely students will actively engage in class activities (Rocca, 2010). The lack of engagement creates information overload (Hewitt & Brett, 2007), which consequently resulted in …

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Use Videos to Illustrate Complicated Conceptual Knowledge

Description Most academic disciplines include highly conceptual or abstract concepts that are difficult for students to grasp. For instance, building a solid foundation of conceptual knowledge for students is critical in engineering education (Streveler, Litzinger, Miller, & Steif, 2008). An incomplete conceptual understanding hinders the development of central engineering competencies and expertise. However, it is …

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