EDUCATIONAL INNOVATION PROJECT IN TEACHING STATISTICS IN ENGINEERING DEGREES

This paper explains the Educational Innovation Project we are introducing for the Basic Statistics courses offered as part of the Bachelor´s Degree in Civil Engineering and the Bachelor´s Degree in Public Works Engineering

The main objective of the project is to improve the student’s learning process and outcomes in these courses. In the project, a teaching methodology based on continuous assessment is adopted in the classroom practical sessions and computer laboratory sessions. The proposed methodology reinforces the formative and continuous assessment of the students and fosters independent learning.

The continuous assessment methodology proposed yields a more objective assessment of the student learning process since it provides improved learning outcomes and enables us to monitor the students’ progress throughout the course. Another main feature of this methodology is that it provides for ongoing feed-back with the students enabling them to take the necessary measures to correct and improve their learning process deficiencies in time to successfully complete the course.

In order to promote independent learning by the students in the classroom practical sessions and computer laboratory sessions, new teaching materials were developed.

To conclude, the high academic results and the student’s positive opinions after the first year of the implementation of this proposed methodology permit us to be optimistic about its suitability.