Information Technology Based Active Learning: A Pilot Study for Engineering Economy

TL;DR: A computer-based module is successfully implemented and tested for an undergraduate engineering economy course that is designed to improve more general cognitive skills and specifically to enhance the metacognitive ability of the participating students.

Abstract: We have recently designed a learning environment to add practical problem solving, increased information technology content, and active learning to industrial engineering courses. In particular, we have successfully implemented and tested a computer-based module for an undergraduate engineering economy course. In this module, students are required to formulate the problem, devise a plan of action, and derive a final solution using the domain knowledge acquired in class. In addition to improving understanding of the course material, the module is also designed to improve more general cognitive skills and specifically to enhance the metacognitive ability of the participating students. A prototype of the module is currently being used in a classroom setting and we report on our initial experiences and student outcomes. We also discuss how this will be extended to an active learning environment that uses information technology across the curriculum to integrate all required undergraduate courses.