Supplemental Teaching Modes for Engineering Mechanics: Statics

When a new section of engineering mechanics: statics was created for students in the Laptop Program at Clemson University, an opportunity was created to incorporate new teaching methods into the curriculum with the hopes of deeper understanding and higher retention among the engineering students enrolled. Methods using computer technology and hands-on activities were developed which allowed the students to play a more responsible role in their learning. Computer usage and hands-on activities will first be discussed in this paper, followed by implementation procedures and expectations. Also given are observations from the first offering of this course, including the unique cohort of students and aspects of time management. Finally the results of these supplemental teaching methods and suggestions for future offerings are provided.