Enhancing Visualization Skills-Improving Options aNd Success (EnViSIONS) of Engineering and Technology Students

Authors

  • N. L. Veurink Michigan Technology University
  • A. J. Hamlin Michigan Technology University
  • J.C. M. Kampe Michigan Technology University
  • S. A. Sorby Michigan Technology University
  • D. G. Blasko Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
  • K. A. Holliday-Darr Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
  • J. D. Trich Kremer Penn State Erie, The Behrend College
  • L. V. Abe Harris Purdue University
  • P. E. Connolly Purdue University
  • M. A. Sadowski Purdue University
  • K. S. Harris Indiana State University
  • C. P. Brus University of Iowa
  • L. N. Boyle University of Iowa
  • N. E. Study Virginia State University
  • T. W. Knott Virginia Tech

Abstract

Spatial visualization skills are vital to many careers and in particular to STEM fields. Materials have been developed at Michigan Technological University and Penn State Erie, The Behrend College to assess and develop spatial skills.  The EnViSIONS (Enhancing Visualization Skills-Improving Options aNd Success) project is combining these materials and testing them with pre-college and college students at  seven institutions: Michigan Tech, Penn State Behrend, Purdue University, University of Iowa, Virginia State University, Virginia Tech, and a “Project Lead the Way” course in south-central Arizona.  By removing a barrier to success for students with low visualization skills, particularly women, the project leaders hope to improve the retention of these students in STEM disciplines and to enhance their success. This paper will give a brief overview of the implementations at the university level and the findings.

Issue

Section

Feature Articles