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Multiview Drawing Instruction: A Two-location Experiment

Abstract

Several methods have been developed, presented, and discussed at recent ASEE and EDGD conferences on the topic of computer-based multiview drawing instruction. While small-scale and localized testing of these instruments and methods has been undertaken, no larger-scale or multi-location experiments have been attempted. This paper describes an experiment that was carried out at two different university campuses with engineering and non-engineering students in an effort to validate the efficacy of these tools in comparison with more traditional methods of orthographic drawing instruction.

Specifically, participant groups of students at each location were exposed to one of two computer-based instructional tools completely, a mix of a computer-based tool and manual drawing methods, or an entirely manual method of multiview drawing instruction. Through the use of pretest/posttest data and survey information, student scores and perceptions were analyzed for useful quantitative and qualitative results. The implications for such results are potentially significant in the areas of foundational instruction, self-study, and remediation of students in engineering graphics and other spatially-associated fields.

Introduction

As has been described in past studies, a significant challenge that many engineering and technology students struggle with is the ability to “see” virtual images in three- dimensional environments [1, 2]. Future success as a student and as a professional in many areas, both technical and non-technical, can be dependent on this ability to manipulate 3D space and objects within that realm [3, 4, 5]. Research in this field has also shown that spatial capabilities can be strengthened through appropriate instruction [6, 7, 8]. A useful and applicable method of instruction and practice for engineering and technology students’ spatial skills has traditionally involved orthographic/multiview drawing.

There are several problems that must be overcome for multiview drawing to be effectively used as an instructional tool. First, it is important for students to comprehend the basic standards of multiview drawing, and master the fundamental concepts of multiview drawing applications. Second, the instructor must be able to deal with a wide variety of visualization abilities in the students, and deal with the logistical issues of providing instruction and feedback to students participating at these various levels of ability and experience.

The use of computer-based tutorials is one method of dealing with the difficulties mentioned above. Tutorials allow for self-paced and varied emphasis instruction, practice, and remediation, providing the instructor much flexibility in such situations [9, 10, 11] .

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Connolly, P. (2006, June), Multiview Drawing Instruction: A Two Location Experiment Paper presented at 2006 Annual Conference & Exposition, Chicago, Illinois. 10.18260/1-2--1178