Innovative Teaching Methods In Engineering Economy: Web Delivery, Excel Calculation, Teamwork Support

Advancing technology has affected both the classroom-learning environment, the methods of performing economic analysis and the expectations of employers. This paper describes an innovative course, delivering engineering economics training that integrates three new technologies: web delivery, spreadsheet calculations and team support. • The classroom environment allows Web delivery. Web delivery provides both classroom support and the opportunity for students to receive distance education. • Methods of performing economic calculations are utilizing spreadsheet calculations. Spreadsheets permit advance-teaching techniques allowing both improved understanding and a move toward required employment skills. • Employers have expectations of teamwork competency. Teamwork provides an opportunity for peer support and exposure to a wider set of problem scenarios and learning outcomes. A description is presented of the resources utilized, the delivery methods and the teaching techniques. A major feature of the course is the use of LearningSpace, a distance education package. Course development uses an action research approach; a discussion of the results of the development survey is provided. A major outcome of these changes is a shift in course attendance patterns and student work practices.