When it comes to technology, Kurt Paterson has been at it for four years. In the world of the Web, that is an eternity.
Paterson, an assistant professor of environmental engineering, makes extensive use of web pages and e-mail lists in his classes. Now he has received a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant to further develop innovative teaching techniques using technology.
The course focuses on developing lab skills and analyzing data. The centerpiece will be a virtual reality environmental engineering lab.
"We may have three-dimensional views of the instruments, be able to look at the controls, and look at a simulated experiment," Paterson explained. "Students can see what kind of data this instrument would tend to produce and how they can process it."
Perhaps most important, students could do this at their own pace and repeat the process as many times as they need for understanding.
Paterson envisions a class with a variety of teaching techniques. Perhaps it will include a short lecture on statistical technique on Monday, the virtual lab on Tuesday, real lab experience on Wednesday, and group presentations and open discussions on Thursday.
"I've spent time reviewing educational psychology and learning styles and keeping abreast of the rapidly-changing computer technology," he said. "That's a real challenge."
And that's why there are few computer-based materials for courses.
"It is simply impossible for most faculty to develop such tools on their own -- it is a time issue and a resource issue," Paterson said. "It is also difficult to find someone with an interest or expertise in the subject matter and the capability to think about these new educational tools. That is why it is important for a place like the National Science Foundation to provide the resources."
In the past, Paterson has used what have become "traditional" technology tools: course web pages and e-mail lists. He put the syllabus, lecture notes, and other class materials on the web. He also established an on-line peer review process.
"When students finished a class assignment, I had them create an electronic document," he explained. "Other student groups were required to go and review that document. They could learn from other students about what makes a good report or a poor report.
"That kind of peer accountability has proven to be a very powerful motivator for excellence among the students."
The NSF grant of more than $200,000 runs for three years and will involve three students. Paterson said the course will be ready for spring semester 2001.
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For more information, contact Kurt Paterson at 906-487-3495 or by email at: paterson@mtu.edu.