Title:
Project-Based Learning at 150 MPH
Author(s):
Amirkhanian
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
ws_S25_Amirkhanian.pdf
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
3/30/2025
Abstract:
Laboratory exercises are not always a true active learning experience for students. All too often, the activities are prescribed, and the outcomes are known ahead of time. In these scenarios, the cognitive effort from the student is low and the benefit of the activity is nowhere near its potential. In this presentation, we will go over how to structure a semester-long project-based laboratory experience that revolves around a nearly unsolvable problem of having sophomore students, who have never mixed concrete, design a panel to survive the impact of a 2x4 traveling at 150 mph. The specific activities related to active and project-based learning will be highlighted, and the lessons learned from performing this activity over four years will be presented.