Laboratory for Qualitative Research in Engineering Education
QuaLab is an interdisciplinary research group that uses qualitative research methods to examine issues facing engineering education. We aim to bring deep, contextual understanding to important issues such as the use of active learning techniques in the classroom, how students solve engineering problems, and the nature of critical thinking in engineering. We also seek to encourage the use of high quality qualitative research across engineering education through workshops and online discussions.
Research is also being conducted in several areas of materials science and engineering. In the area of infrastructure materials we are examining the durability of epoxy systems used in conjunction with concrete, particularly externally bonded fiber reinforced composites for strengthening and bonded anchors. We are also developing materials and processing techniques to improve the outcoupling efficiency of organic light emitting diodes.
- POGIL in MSE
- REU
QuaLab has been awarded an NSF grant to continue its work on implementing Process Oriented Guided Inquiry Learning in the MSE curriculum. The focus of this grant is to examine how POGIL is implemented in the Introduction to Materials course at a diverse set of institutions. We will be working with Boise State University, Bucknell University, and North Carolina A&T, examining how POGIL can be used to meet both student learning goals and instructor teaching goals.
QuaLab has recently received an NSF grant to oversee a new Research Experiences for Undergraduates site. This REU focuses on infrastructure materials, and involves faculty from Materials Science and Engineering, Civil and Coastal Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering. Undergraduate will spend 12 weeks at the University of Florida, taking part in laboratory research, professional development seminars, and social activities. The REU will begin in the summer of 2012.
