Retention Through an Applied Physics, Engineering, and Mathematics (PEM) Model

Investigator(s):

Jo Howze (PI) ; William Bassichis (Co-PI) ; Janice Rinehart (Co-PI) ; Timothy Scott (Co-PI) ; Michael Pilant (Co-PI)

Sponsor:

Texas Engineering Experiment Station, TX 77843 9798621696

Start Date/Expiration Date

2003-09-15 to 2008-08-31 (amended 2005-01-12)

Awarded Amount to Date:

$1,999,999

Abstract: The College of Engineering is increasing the number of graduates in physics, engineering, and mathematics by improving the retention rate of students. A special emphasis is being placed on retaining students through the freshman year of study. A three-pronged approach is being used. An integrated first year physics, engineering and mathematics (PEM) curriculum is proving effective in reducing the first year attrition rate of students majoring in these fields. The approach is having the greatest effect on the retention of first generation college attendees and underrepresented groups. Use of the Learning and Studies Strategy Inventory (LASSI) instrument coupled to a package of training modules is giving students an understanding of their individual learning strategies and how to adapt them to the challenging environment of PEM courses. Workshops for teaching teams complete the triad of approaches. The teaching teams consisting of one or two faculty members, a graduate teaching assistant, and an undergraduate peer teacher are receiving training in using collaborative learning in the classroom, team training, and behavior profiles training. The goal of the focus on first-year retention is to increase the graduation rates in the PEM subjects by year five of the project by a minimum of ten percent.

NSF Org:

DUE - Division of Undergraduate Education

Award Number:

0336591

Award Instrument:

Standard Grant

Program Manager:

John R. Haddock
DUE Division of Undergraduate Education
EHR Directorate for Education & Human Resources

NSF Program(s):

STEM TALENT EXPANSN PGM (STEP)

Field Application(s):

Other nsf.applications NEC

Program Reference Code(s):

UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION, 9178

Program Element Code(s):

1796