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ENGR 112: Mechanics of Materials

Visualization, Motivation, Practical

Reflection on Instructional Change:

After completing the ACUE course I challenged myself to provided clearer explanations in the classroom and I tried a couple of different techniques. First, I used physical models that were developed to demonstrate the theory in the classroom. Second, I recorded myself working out some example problems and posted the videos on Canvas so that the students could watch and re-watch the videos as necessary. I then assigned them homework problems where the students could assess themselves to ensure they knew the material well enough before they demonstrated the knowledge during an exam.

I received overwhelmingly positive feedback from students. They have approached me after class and told me that certain things did not make sense until after they saw the physical model demonstration in class. They also expressed that having the videos showing the worked-out examples was extremely helpful as they could easily rewind the video if they missed a step or they could re-watch the video if they found themselves getting stuck on homework problems.

I found that the Observe and Analyze Videos were particularly helpful because it gave me the opportunity to observe good practices and it also allowed me to identify some areas of improvement.

The key take away from my Observe and Analyze Session with my colleagues was that there is always room for improvement and trying new things in the classroom can be very helpful for some students.

**Evidence of Instructional Change**
Screen shot of recording showing example problem being worked out.	Foam beam used for in-class demonstrations to explain bending, axial and torsional effects.	Cantilever beam and fixed connection to help students visualize these connections and to explain the assumptions made in class.

Changes in Course Syllabus and Schedules:

Pre FLC - Syllabus and Schedule

Post FLC - Syllabus and Schedule

**Faculty Bio**
	Jose E. Garcia, Ph.D, is an assistant professor in the Department of Civil Engineering at California State University, Sacramento. His research interests include concrete durability and sustainability.

**Program Sponsors**
	This work was supported by: US Department of Education Developing Hispanic Serving Institutions Project Degree with a Purpose P031S210061 US Department of Education Hispanic Serving Institution STEM Project STEM4Equity: P031C210012 National Science Foundation Hispanic Serving Institution Project STEMZone 1832335 *Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the US Department of Education or the National Science Foundation.