TY - GEN
T1 - A project-based-learning approach to teaching first-order and second-order differential equations to engineers
AU - Carr, M.
AU - Farrell, Fionnuala
AU - Fhloinn, Eabhnat Ní
PY - 2017
Y1 - 2017
N2 - In an attempt to increase engagement in a third-year mechanical-engineering mathematics module, a project was introduced in 2015/16. Students were asked to use the solution of a second-order differential equation (previously introduced in lectures) to solve a problem in which they must design a simple spring-damper system for one of a lorry, digger, truck, tractor, car, motorbike or pogo stick. In 2016/2017 this approach has been extended to a second project to use a first order differential equation to design a parachute. These projects were worth a total of 20% of the module. A detailed description of the implementation of this assessment is given along with an analysis of how students perform on questions on similar topics in the terminal examination for this module. Secondly we outline feedback received from a survey of the students. Finally we discuss the possibility of teaching the entire maths module via a project based learning approach.
AB - In an attempt to increase engagement in a third-year mechanical-engineering mathematics module, a project was introduced in 2015/16. Students were asked to use the solution of a second-order differential equation (previously introduced in lectures) to solve a problem in which they must design a simple spring-damper system for one of a lorry, digger, truck, tractor, car, motorbike or pogo stick. In 2016/2017 this approach has been extended to a second project to use a first order differential equation to design a parachute. These projects were worth a total of 20% of the module. A detailed description of the implementation of this assessment is given along with an analysis of how students perform on questions on similar topics in the terminal examination for this module. Secondly we outline feedback received from a survey of the students. Finally we discuss the possibility of teaching the entire maths module via a project based learning approach.
UR - http://www.scopus.com/inward/record.url?scp=85034739545&partnerID=8YFLogxK
M3 - Conference contribution
AN - SCOPUS:85034739545
T3 - Proceedings of the 45th SEFI Annual Conference 2017 - Education Excellence for Sustainability, SEFI 2017
SP - 1322
EP - 1335
BT - Proceedings of the 45th SEFI Annual Conference 2017 - Education Excellence for Sustainability, SEFI 2017
A2 - Bernardino, Jorge
A2 - Rocha, Joao
A2 - Quadrado, Jose Carlos
PB - European Society for Engineering Education (SEFI)
T2 - 45th Annual Conference of the European Society for Engineering Education, SEFI 2017
Y2 - 18 September 2017 through 21 September 2017
ER -