Students’ Perception of Different Learning Options and Use of Authentic Research Papers in a First Year Engineering Course

Abstract

This case study presents a teaching strategy for an engineering dynamics course using a range of different learning options supporting different learning styles. The teaching strategy was implemented in a blended learning environment by combining traditional lectures with online resources. Additionally, hand-in assignments based on authentic research papers were introduced. Two sets of questionnaires were given to evaluate the students’ perception of the different learning options. The study shows that the students found online pencasts very useful as a means to increase the outcome of studying a traditional textbook. The implementation of an electronic audience response system to enhance active learning by peer instruction in combination with traditional lecturing was highly appreciated by the students. The students found it difficult and time consuming to work with real research papers but many students expressed that it was stimulating to see that the theory is used today by practitioners in engineering. Finally, the study indicates that the proposed teaching strategy as estimated by the students leads to increased motivation and engagement in their study.