Session S4D COLLABORATTVE, GOAL-ORIENTED MANIPULATION OF ARTIFACTS BY STUDENTS DURING STATICS LECTURE
Paul S. Steif · 2003
To apply Statics ejlectively, students must link the concepts and symbols of Statics to the mechanical paraphernalia of engineering. Forming these links is challenging, however, because the interactions between inanimate objects are dificult to perceive. We have consequently revamped Statics instruction so as lo introduce the major conceprs of Statics -forces, moments, couples. static equivalency. free body diagrams and equilibriunt - using simple objects on which students can exert forces and couples with their own hands. Small groups of students manipulate objects in lecture. To guide student interactions with the objects, to lay bare key concepts, and Io acclimafe students to the representations which are common in mechanics. we have devised multiple choice concept questions implemented through Powerpoint Presentations. Concept questions involve little or no calculation andfocus on understanding OJ concepts. Moreover, insight into the concept questions can be obtained through manipulation of the objects and peer-to-peer discussions.