Abstract
By integrating physics laboratories with engineering design and computer science, students apply physics principles to ill-structured and complex problems, engage in knowledge transfer, and gain interest in STEM. The introductory physics labs at Purdue have been updated to include engineering design and computer science principles that ground physics in authentic problems. Integrated labs have been evaluated using student perception post-surveys, student course performance, interviews, and case-study observations. Preliminary results indicate that integrated physics labs promote transfer, enhanced metacognitive skills, student interest, and motivation.
Document Type
Brief
DOI
10.5703/1288284317601
Recommended Citation
Morphew, Jason; Lopez, Ruben; Bralin, Amir; Subramaniam, Ravishankar Chatta; Rebello, Sanjay; and Rebello, Carina, "Integrated STEM: Impact of Engineering Design and Computer Science in STEM Labs" (2023). Indiana STEM Education Conference. 8.
https://docs.lib.purdue.edu/instemed/2023/briefs/8
Included in
Engineering Education Commons, Science and Mathematics Education Commons, Science and Technology Studies Commons
Integrated STEM: Impact of Engineering Design and Computer Science in STEM Labs
By integrating physics laboratories with engineering design and computer science, students apply physics principles to ill-structured and complex problems, engage in knowledge transfer, and gain interest in STEM. The introductory physics labs at Purdue have been updated to include engineering design and computer science principles that ground physics in authentic problems. Integrated labs have been evaluated using student perception post-surveys, student course performance, interviews, and case-study observations. Preliminary results indicate that integrated physics labs promote transfer, enhanced metacognitive skills, student interest, and motivation.