Tutorial teaching: problem solving in the classroom

The paradigm shift from the chalk-and-talk teaching method to recognizing learning styles and methodologies in engineering education is transforming the way engineers are prepared to solve problems for the 21st Century. The traditional method of lecturing has declined in usage, and more innovative methods of teaching are being applied to increase comprehension, retention, and application of basic engineering skills. Most of these methods are founded on essentially five basic problem solving approaches: routines, diagnosis, strategy, interpretation and generation. Innovative ways of quality instruction are re-examining not only "what" is taught, but "how" it is taught.