Pilot Study: Incorporating the study of engineering history into engineering courses.
- Conference
- Location
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Portland, Oregon
- Publication Date
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June 23, 2024
- Start Date
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June 23, 2024
- End Date
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July 12, 2024
- Conference Session
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MECH - Technical Session 6: Curriculum Development and Pedagogical Strategies
- Tagged Division
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Mechanical Engineering Division (MECH)
- Permanent URL
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https://peer.asee.org/47845
Paper Authors
Gloria Guohua Ma Wentworth Institute of Technology
Gloria Ma is a Professor in the Mechanical Engineering program at Wentworth Institute of Technology. She has been teaching robotics with Lego Mindstorm to ME freshmen for several years. She is actively involved in community services of offering robotics workshops to middle- and high-school girls. Her research interests include dynamics and system modeling, geometry modeling, project based engineering design, and robotics in manufacturing, artificial intelligent in Manufacturing, and engineering education.
Bo Tao Wentworth Institute of Technology
Dr. Bo Tao is an Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering in the School of Engineering at Wentworth Institute of Technology. He is primarily involved in undergraduate engineering education in the thermal-fluids area, while engaging students in applied research and design projects related to thermodynamics and heat transfer, and applications of wind and other renewable energy areas.
Abstract
Engineering students often question the relevance of humanities and social science courses in their curriculum, wondering whether a direct focus on technical subjects is more beneficial. However, a comprehensive education is crucial for addressing complex engineering challenges. Engineers need to be well-rounded professionals, equipped not only with technical competence but also critical thinking, ethical skills, cultural understanding, and awareness of the social impact of their work. We propose an approach that infuses historical figures (mathematician, scientists, engineers) and case studies into two junior level engineering courses to address this concern.
In this paper, we investigate the impact of introducing historical figures and unique case studies into engineering courses. Selected historical figures and case studies were presented in class, and student feedback was positive. Integrating historical context into engineering courses positively affected student engagement and retention of basic principles, as well as enhancing their interest in learning the topics. By doing so, we hope to enhance the students' understanding of the context and real-world relevance of the theories and principles they encounter in their engineering education.
Ma, G. G., & Tao, B. (2024, June), Pilot Study: Incorporating the study of engineering history into engineering courses. Paper presented at 2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Portland, Oregon. https://peer.asee.org/47845
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