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Engineering Students' Perceptions of Mathematical Modeling in a Learning Module Centered on a Hydrologic Design Case Study

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Title: Engineering Students' Perceptions of Mathematical Modeling in a Learning Module Centered on a Hydrologic Design Case Study
Language: English
Authors: Merck, Madeline F. (ORCID 0000-0003-4323-3157), Gallagher, Melissa A., Habib, Emad, Tarboton, David
Source: International Journal of Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education. Jul 2021 7(2):351-377.
Availability: Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 27
Publication Date: 2021
Sponsoring Agency: National Science Foundation (NSF), Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (DOC)
Contract Number: 1122898
1122812
1725989
1726965
NA14OAR4170099
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Engineering Education, Mathematical Models, Mathematics Skills, Skill Development, Learning Modules, Electronic Learning, Instructional Effectiveness, Design, Case Method (Teaching Technique), Water, Authentic Learning, Problem Based Learning, Technology Integration, College Students, Student Attitudes
DOI: 10.1007/s40753-020-00131-8
ISSN: 2198-9745
Abstract: Engineering students need to spend time engaging in mathematical modeling tasks to reinforce their learning of mathematics through its application to authentic problems and real world design situations. Technological tools and resources can support this kind of learning engagement. We produced an online module that develops students' mathematical modeling skills while developing knowledge of the fundamentals of rainfall-runoff processes and engineering design. This study examined how 251 students at two United States universities perceived mathematical modeling as implemented through the online module over a 5-year period. We found, subject to the limitation that these are perceptions from not all students, that: (a) the module allowed students to be a part of the modeling process; (b) using technology, such as modeling software and online databases, in the module helped students to understand what they were doing in mathematical modeling; (c) using the technology in the module helped students to develop their skill set; and (d) difficulties with the technology and/or the modeling decisions they had to make in the module activities were in some cases barriers that interfered with students' ability to learn. We advocate for instructors to create modules that: (a) are situated within a real-world context, requiring students to model mathematically to solve an authentic problem; (b) take advantage of digital tools used by engineers to support students' development of the mathematical and engineering skills needed in the workforce; and (c) use student feedback to guide module revisions.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2021
Accession Number: EJ1306142
Database: ERIC
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  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Merck%2C+Madeline+F%2E%22">Merck, Madeline F.</searchLink> (ORCID <externalLink term="http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4323-3157">0000-0003-4323-3157</externalLink>)<br /><searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Gallagher%2C+Melissa+A%2E%22">Gallagher, Melissa A.</searchLink><br /><searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Habib%2C+Emad%22">Habib, Emad</searchLink><br /><searchLink fieldCode="AR" term="%22Tarboton%2C+David%22">Tarboton, David</searchLink>
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  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="SO" term="%22International+Journal+of+Research+in+Undergraduate+Mathematics+Education%22"><i>International Journal of Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education</i></searchLink>. Jul 2021 7(2):351-377.
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  Data: Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
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  Data: Engineering students need to spend time engaging in mathematical modeling tasks to reinforce their learning of mathematics through its application to authentic problems and real world design situations. Technological tools and resources can support this kind of learning engagement. We produced an online module that develops students' mathematical modeling skills while developing knowledge of the fundamentals of rainfall-runoff processes and engineering design. This study examined how 251 students at two United States universities perceived mathematical modeling as implemented through the online module over a 5-year period. We found, subject to the limitation that these are perceptions from not all students, that: (a) the module allowed students to be a part of the modeling process; (b) using technology, such as modeling software and online databases, in the module helped students to understand what they were doing in mathematical modeling; (c) using the technology in the module helped students to develop their skill set; and (d) difficulties with the technology and/or the modeling decisions they had to make in the module activities were in some cases barriers that interfered with students' ability to learn. We advocate for instructors to create modules that: (a) are situated within a real-world context, requiring students to model mathematically to solve an authentic problem; (b) take advantage of digital tools used by engineers to support students' development of the mathematical and engineering skills needed in the workforce; and (c) use student feedback to guide module revisions.
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      – TitleFull: Engineering Students' Perceptions of Mathematical Modeling in a Learning Module Centered on a Hydrologic Design Case Study
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