Problem-Centered Approach in a Numerical Methods Course
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2008
Keywords
case reports, engineering education, numerical analysis, undergraduate study
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1061/(ASCE)1052-3928(2008)134:4(359)
Abstract
This paper is an illustration of using a problem-centered approach in an undergraduate course in numerical methods. The problem used in the course was first encountered in a research project that related to the assembly procedure of the fulcrum of bascule bridges. It involved the study of the fulcrum assembly procedure where a trunnion cooled in a dry-ice/alcohol mixture for shrink fitting became stuck halfway in the hub before full insertion could take place. The solution of the problem and its implementation involved numerical solutions of mathematical procedures taught in a typical numerical methods course. The effect of the problem-centered approach in the classroom was quantitatively and qualitatively surveyed over a two-semester period. The results indicate very high student satisfaction in helping them: acquire basic knowledge and skills; reinforce information presented in class, reading assignments, and problem sets; learn to clearly formulate a specific problem and then work it through to completion; develop generic higher-order thinking and problem solving skills; and develop a sense of competence and confidence and see the relevance of the course material to their major.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
Yes
Citation / Publisher Attribution
Journal of Professional Issues in Engineering Education and Practice, v. 134, issue 4, p. 359-364
Scholar Commons Citation
Kaw, Autar and Yalcin, Ali, "Problem-Centered Approach in a Numerical Methods Course" (2008). Mechanical Engineering Faculty Publications. 160.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/egr_facpub/160
