Sustaining Interest in and Preparing Students for Successful Transitions to Professional Programs of Study: Insights From NSF (National Science Foundation)-Supported Engineering Education Initiatives

Session Submission Type: Symposium

Abstract

Research agendas to promote high quality education in the professions are rich and varied, addressing issues from elementary through postsecondary which impact awareness of the educational trajectories that place one on-course for pursuing professional education; the quality of instruction which enhances learning along those trajectories; the effects of innovative curricula on student interest, engagement, and learning outcomes; methods for assessing student learning to inform instruction; and the training, expertise, and ongoing professional development activities that enhance instruction and may culminate in more and better prepared students pursuing education in the professions. This symposium presents insights from four NSF-supported studies with important implications for sustaining interest in and preparing students for successful transitions to professional programs of study.

Sub Unit

• Division I - Education in the Professions

Chair

• James S. Dietz, National Science Foundation

Papers

• The Expert Blind Spot and Implications for the Teaching and Learning of K-12 Engineering - Anthony Petrosino, The University of Texas - Austin; Sara Hawkins, The University of Texas - Austin; Wonsoon Park, The University of Texas - Austin

• Developing a New Generation of Concept Inventories to Increase Diagnostic Capability - Ruth A. Streveler, Purdue University

Discussant

• James S. Dietz, National Science Foundation