Implementing A Team Exam In Thermodynamics

An increased emphasis on the importance of developing team skills within the undergraduate engineering curriculum has taken place over the past several years, and has culminated in its inclusion as one of the ABET 2000 outcomes 1. While in the past this portion of the curriculum was primarily regulated to design project teams, typically occurring in the final year of instruction, teaming exercises are currently being implemented in a number of courses throughout the curriculum2,3. On the surface, it may seem that it is difficult, if not impossible, to incorporate meaningful teaming experiences into certain classes; thermodynamics being one. However, in order for our students to develop the teaming skills they will need upon entering the engineering workforce, it is imperative that instructors implement teaming activities throughout the entire curriculum. One means of doing this is with team exams.