Work in progress: Data-rich learning environments for engineering education

Green Research for Incorporating Data in the Classroom (GRID_C) is a National Science Foundation project designed to improve instructional practices in the curricula areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The project uses data collected from renewable energy technologies at the NC Solar House, and enables students in engineering and education to analyze, synthesize, and evaluate downloadable data. Students and instructors create data-driven and conceptual models to explain information obtained from the project´s website using a variety of methods involved in technical data presentation. This paper explains the GRID_C project and how students in engineering and pre-service technology, engineering and design teacher education develop higher-order thinking skills. Preliminary research has been conducted on the effective use of these materials in college level environmental engineering classes and technical animation courses in engineering graphics. This research provides a base for continued research and development on using data-rich learning environments to further develop higher-order thinking skills for students across the country.