Conference Session

Promotion and Tenure

Collection

1998 Annual Conference

Authors

James R. Alexander, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Donald D. Harter, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown; Jerry W. Samples, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown

Tagged Divisions

New Engineering Educators (NEE)

path is different but requiresplanning and careful management just as it does in the research institutions. The key to successis a fast start that eliminates the first year syndrome, where satisfaction over landing a job buoysthe new professor until the realization hits that this is a small step in a lifetime career.This paper addresses the fast start from three levels; Vice President for Academic Affairs(VPAA), Director of Engineering Technology, and the new Professor. It addresses the planproposed by the VPAA, the execution of that plan by the Director, and the efforts of theProfessor to accomplish the myriad of tasks that will help in the tenure process. It involves directcommunication among the group, and a mentoring plan to assist the new

Conference Session

Tricks of the Trade Inside the Classroom (1675)

Collection

1998 Annual Conference

Authors

Deborah M. Mechtel, United States Naval Academy

Tagged Divisions

New Engineering Educators (NEE)

the implementation strategy, and conclusionsand future plans. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY AND PHILOSOPYIn prior courses, using the classic teaching methodology, the instructor typically worked at leasttwo examples on the board for each new concept introduced to students. Student participationwas generally passive and students were only actively engaged when compelled to respond toinstructor questions. In contrast, the technique introduced in this class used cooperative learninggroups of three or four students to work at least one example in class with the instructor acting asa resource for each group. At the beginning of the semester, the instructor assigned students tocooperative learning groups based on prior experience and