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Outcomes of Using an Infinitely Explorable Online Learning System

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Conference

2013 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Location

Atlanta, Georgia

Publication Date

June 23, 2013

Start Date

June 23, 2013

End Date

June 26, 2013

ISSN

2153-5965

Conference Session

Potpouri - A Mix

Tagged Division

Mechanics

Page Count

12

Page Numbers

23.952.1 - 23.952.12

DOI

10.18260/1-2--22337

Permanent URL

https://peer.asee.org/22337

Download Count

416

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Paper Authors

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Franco Capaldi Merrimack College

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Devin R. Berg University of Wisconsin - Stout Orcid 16x16 orcid.org/0000-0002-1193-3848

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Devin Berg is an assistant professor in the Engineering and Technology Department at the University of Wisconsin - Stout. His research interests are in the areas of engineering education and the design of medical devices.

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Abstract

Outcomes of Using an Infinitely Explorable Online Learning SystemIn this paper, we will present the results of a study on the effectiveness of a new online learningsystem (OLS). The OLS provides students with engineering problems in statics, fluids,mechanics of materials, and physics which can be infinitely explored. This approach is based onthe model of discovery learning in which students construct knowledge through exploration andexperimentation. Traditional online systems are hint based. If a student has difficulty, they askfor a hint and proceed. Instead, the OLS provides the ability for the student to test intermediatesteps. As an example, if a student cannot determine the value of the sine of an angle, they canfirst check if the angle they are using is correct.The study presented in this paper was conducted at ______________ and _____________looking at the effectiveness of the system. The study consists of a single control group at eachschool in addition to two treated groups at ______________ and one treated group at______________. The treated group used the OLS and the control group was given traditionalwritten assignments and activities. The Force Concept Inventory (American Modeling TeachersAssociation) was administered for all groups prior to treatment, allowing for a clear comparisonbetween the two groups initial level. The outcomes of each student group’s performance onidentical exams throughout the term will be presented. Additionally, the use of survey andobservational components for assessment will allow us to acquire qualitative data regarding theusage scenarios and acceptance of OLS by students.It is expected that the results of this study will provide insight into both the effectiveness of theOLS as well as the use of student motivated instructional methods in general. Through acomparison of student performance between the control and treatment groups it will be possibleto directly assess the outcomes of traditional educational techniques versus techniques whichallow the student to explore assigned problems in a less directed manner.

Capaldi, F., & Berg, D. R. (2013, June), Outcomes of Using an Infinitely Explorable Online Learning System Paper presented at 2013 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Atlanta, Georgia. 10.18260/1-2--22337

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