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Article
A Matter of Priorities: Effects of Increased Opportunities for Extracurricular and Non-Traditional Learning Experiences on Student Time Management and Attitudes
Proceedings of the ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition (2005, Portland, OR)
  • David Spurlock, Missouri University of Science and Technology
  • Daniel J. Bailey
  • Susan L. Murray, Missouri University of Science and Technology
  • Andrew S. Ricke
Abstract

Many schools are emphasizing non-traditional and extracurricular learning experiences for undergraduate engineering students. These include activities such as incorporating servicelearning projects into the classroom, involving students in design competitions (e.g., solar car, formula car races), and promoting involvement in traditional campus organizations. Often this emphasis is in response to changes in ABET requirements, desires of future employers, and needs to improve student retention. What are the effects of emphasizing these sorts of activities on student attitudes and time management decisions? We examine the influences on students' priorities for allocating their time and their perceptions of the relative importance of available activities, especially traditional coursework. We present data relating key personality and motivational factors to patterns of student social involvement, organizational commitment, academic performance, and work habits and attitudes. Implications for educators and potential cost-benefit trade-offs for particular student subpopulations are also presented.

Meeting Name
ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition (2005: Jun. 12-15, Portland, OR)
Department(s)
Engineering Management and Systems Engineering
Sponsor(s)

American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE)

Keywords and Phrases
  • Design competitions,
  • Engineering students,
  • Extracurricular learning,
  • Schools,
  • Competition,
  • Cost benefit analysis,
  • Curricula,
  • Learning systems,
  • Societies and institutions,
  • Students,
  • Engineering education
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Final Version
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2005 American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
6-1-2005
Publication Date
01 Jun 2005
Citation Information
David Spurlock, Daniel J. Bailey, Susan L. Murray and Andrew S. Ricke. "A Matter of Priorities: Effects of Increased Opportunities for Extracurricular and Non-Traditional Learning Experiences on Student Time Management and Attitudes" Proceedings of the ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition (2005, Portland, OR) (2005) p. 10113 - 10122
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/david-spurlock/1/