Another shift

Well, here we go again, but this time I think I have found the path. While it is not fully finalized yet, I have the basic framework and direction and it fits in with my goal of researching engineering education and faculty training/development. It has also prompted a interesting discussion with one of my faculty advisors. While I can't really post the exact commentary, it has been interesting. We both seem to have the same basic view of engineering education, but I think the approaches are a little different. As I said, interesting...

I am a little (OK, a lot) more satisfied with the direction I am heading now. As I said, it fits in more with my interest in engineering education and the belief that the systems needs to be changed. I also believe that faculty are the key to this change, but they must be given the knowledge in order to make informed decisions about which direction this change should take. I believe that if they can see the difference that a change in methodology in teaching can take, then they will better understand what needs to be done with the system as a whole. All faculty have an opinion about teaching and learning, but many don't have the slightest clue when it comes to trying to change. They may be the smartest person when it comes to electrical, or civel, or chemical engineering, but they don't have the slightest idea how to get there ideas across in a meaningful way.

Another major complaint is that of student motivation. This is a very difficult problem to deal with and can be very draining for faculty. But, I think that if faculty were given more knowledge and tools, then they would be better able to deal with this issue. At least they would have a better chance at connecting with a majority of students instead of the minority.

So then the questions becomes, if faculty are given the knowledge and tools, what do they do with them? Do they try to change and be innovative or do they simply say "That's nice" and then go back to what they were doing...focus on research, forget about effective teaching?