Work in progress - development of a two-semester introduction to electrical engineering hybrid design Studio

A traditional two-semester introduction to electrical engineering curriculum is being modified. The traditional method with lectures and prescribed laboratory experiences has been an effective learning model for students. A modification of this approach is being implemented to improve the students´ depth and retention of knowledge. The traditional approach is being replaced by a one-semester broad overview course and a second semester in-depth study course that uses a studio learning pedagogy. The first semester broad overview course is comprised of material from the former two- semester curriculum, a digital design course, and junior- level courses. Additionally, the use of simulation is increased and more laboratory experiments are performed. The second semester uses a studio learning environment where students reinforce the concepts from the first semester by engaging in open-ended hands-on design, in-studio design and problem solving, and repetition of some of the previous semester´s laboratory work. The mix of traditional lecture/lab overview of material followed by in-depth studio learning is a significant change from traditional teaching pedagogies and is expected to result in deeper learning and increased knowledge retention. Assessment will be performed at the end of the second semester and again in the fall of the junior year.