Description :  The goal of this project is to develop a generic framework as well as three prototypes of a new teaching tool, “Case Study Interactive,” which will assist in introducing and demonstrating to undergraduate students abstract concepts and theories in the field of engineering and related disciplines. This innovative instructional tool entices students into a cycle of discovery and implementation via a mix of self-learning (i.e, trial and error) and timely provided knowledge (i.e., text, photos, and video clips). The core of an interactive case study is a “simulator”—a hybrid of a computer game and an engineering model. The new approach combines the delivery of technical knowledge and humor/entertainment within a highly visual and interactive simulation environment to present complex, multidisciplinary problems that evolve over time. The concept harnesses the same motivators used in computer games, namely the desire to “beat the computer” and to maximize one’s score, enticing the student to maximize his or her understanding of the laws that govern the response of the system (e.g., the scientific principles, management practices). The level of knowledge and understanding gained by the student is tested by pop-out tests given at various stages throughout the exercise. The technical knowledge needed to complete the exercise the “win the game” is available online as part of the simulator. Similar to most real-world scenarios, a good simulator has many adequate solutions, some better than others, but all of which satisfy the basic requirements of the problem.

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Principal Investigator:  Allouche, Erez  --  Civil Engineering

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Collaborators:  

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Funding Agencies:  National Science Foundation

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Amount Awarded:  $74,888

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Start Period:  03/15/2005

End Period:  02/28/2007