An Approach to Improving Student Learning of Civil Engineering Concepts Using Case Studies

Engineering educators, professional organizations and practitioner have long recognized the benefits of integrating engineering case studies, especially failures into the civil engineering curriculum. One key benefit is that it provides a pedagogical tool that encourages students to address the complex challenges faced by engineers in the real world. The Civil Engineering Faculty at the United States Coast Guard Academy has successfully integrated case studies in several undergraduate courses to reinforce technical concepts. Case studies provided opportunities for discussion of engineering principles and concepts as well as fostering professional development in ethics and life-long learning. This paper discusses the implementation of case studies and the benefits to student learning especially in identifying problems and developing alternative solutions. Assessment data indicate that the use of case studies enhanced students' learning of engineering principles and improved their understanding of the problem-solving process.