Brainstorming Exercises As An Active Learning Component Of Thermal System Courses

Several active learning exercises have been developed and tested for the Thermal/Fluid Systems Design and Thermodynamics courses. It was found that active learning exercises could be used to do more than just engage the students. The exercises can be tailored to promote the development of specific engineering skills and can be used to replace lecture coverage of certain topics. Overall the exercises were found more favorable to students than traditional lectures, promoted teamwork skills, and sponsored creative thinking. Student interest in energy related topics was also encouraged. In this paper several active learning exercises used in the Thermal/Fluid Systems Design and Thermodynamics courses will be presented. Example problem descriptions and exercise references are provided along with student and instructor observations. Lessons which the instructor has learned regarding exercise formation and use will be presented to aid others in formulating similar activities.