Open-Ended Modeling Group Projects in Introductory Statics and Dynamics Courses

Abstract

Traditionally, the types of problems that students see in their introductory statics and dynamics courses are well-structured textbook problems with a single solution [1]. These types of questions are often seen by students as being somewhat at-odds with the more “realistic” challenges that they may face in their design or lab courses. Additionally, in the pandemic-necessitated paradigm of emergency online instruction, methods of assessment beyond traditional exams have become more emphasized, both as a way of keeping students engaged by giving the material relevance and of ensuring that the work that they present is their own when so many solutions are available online.

Topics & Concepts