A Project-Based Spiral Curriculum for Introductory Courses in ChE: III. Evaluation

Authors

  • David DiBiasio Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  • Lisa Comparini University of Connecticut
  • Anthony G. Dixon Worcester Polytechnic Institute
  • William M. Clark Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Abstract

Two previous papers in this series presented the design and implementation of a novel, project-based, spiral curriculum for the first year of chemical engineering.  This paper describes the evaluation of the project. Results from a variety of measurements and analysis converged upon a consistent answer.  Compared to traditionally taught students, spiral-taught students displayed equal or better understanding of basic chemical engineering principles, were better in teams at solving open-ended problems, had higher satisfaction levels with their academic experience, had higher retention rates, were more confident about their choice of chemical engineering as a major, and performed better in upper-level chemical engineering courses.

Author Biographies

David DiBiasio, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

David DIBiasio is Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at WPI. He received his BS, MS, and PhD degrees in chemical engineering from Purdue University. His educational work focuses on active and cooperative learning and educational assessment. His other research interests are in biochemical engineering, specifically biological reactor analysis.

Lisa Comparini, University of Connecticut

Lisa Comparini is a post-doctoral fellow in the Depattment of Family Studies at the University of Connecticut. She received her PhD in Developmental Psychology from Clark University where she focused on issues of language, communication, culture, and development. While her primary area of interest is in communicative practices within the family context, her interest in issues of development and communication extend to other interactive contexts, including the classroom.

Anthony G. Dixon, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Anthony G. Dixon is Professor of Chemical Engineering at WPI. He holds a BSc degree in mathematics and a PhD degree in chemical engineering from the University of Edinburgh. His research has included development of interactive graphics software to aid in teaching process design and mathematics to engineers.

William M. Clark, Worcester Polytechnic Institute

William M. Clark is Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at WPI. He holds BS and PhD degrees in chemical engineering from Clemson University and Rice University, respectively, and has thitteen years of experience teaching thermodynamics, unit operations, and separation processes. His educational research focuses on developing and evaluating computer-aided learning tools.

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Published

2020-06-23

Issue

Vol. 35 No. 2 (2001): Spring 2001

Section

Manuscripts