Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning: Adapting Teaching Strategies in an Undergraduate Data Analytics and Programming Course

Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning: Adapting Teaching Strategies in an Undergraduate Data Analytics and Programming Course

Presenter(s)

Shivani Mantoo

Comments

11:40-12:00, Kennedy Union 310

Description

Effective undergraduate teaching is centered on creating an engaging, supportive, and inclusive environment that fosters student growth and learning. As the first master’s student to serve as an instructor of record in the Engineering Management, Systems, and Technology Department, the challenges of teaching were approached with enthusiasm, adaptability, and a student-centered philosophy.While teaching SET 153L (Introduction to Data Analytics and Programming) for the first time in Spring 2024, it became evident that many students struggled with the flipped classroom model, particularly in transitioning from self-paced learning to active. In response, the teaching approach was restructured by initiating each session with a guided class activity and hands-on learning, allowing students to build confidence and solidify foundational concepts before advancing to more complex problem-solving tasks. This adjustment resulted in significant improvements in both student engagement and comprehension, fostering a more interactive and supportive learning environment.In addition to curricular modifications, an intentional effort was made to cultivate an inclusive and supportive classroom culture. Recognizing that some students were hesitant to ask questions, open dialogue was encouraged, consistent opportunities for one-on-one meetings were provided, and a space was created where all students felt comfortable seeking help. These efforts reinforced the belief that effective teaching transcends content delivery—it involves creating an environment in which students feel empowered to engage and grow.The positive impact of these adjustments was reflected in student feedback, which was both rewarding and motivating. The opportunity to teach the course again further strengthened the commitment to continuous improvement, both in refining teaching methods and enhancing student engagement.This teaching experience has been transformative, with ongoing efforts to evolve the approach, learn from students, and contribute to an enriching educational experience.

Publication Date

4-23-2025

Project Designation

Independent Research

Primary Advisor

Philip Appiah-Kubi

Primary Advisor's Department

Engineering Management, Systems, and Technology

Keywords

Stander Symposium, School of Engineering

Institutional Learning Goals

Scholarship; Community

Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning: Adapting Teaching Strategies in an Undergraduate Data Analytics and Programming Course

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