Skip to main content
Article
Updating the Case Study for Complex Engineering Infrastructure Problems
Proceedings of the 62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo (2012, Orlando, FL)
  • Sean Michael Schmidt
  • Suzanna Long, Missouri University of Science and Technology
  • Kellie S. Grasman, Missouri University of Science and Technology
Abstract

Decision making and risk analysis are critical components of infrastructure management problems faced by today's engineers and are frequently introduced to students through the case study, a common tool for encouraging student learning on real-world engineering problems. However, case studies can be artificial, incomplete descriptions of an issue without adequate context or connections to the "big picture" faced by engineers and engineering managers. This paper explores the value of creating integrated case studies for use in undergraduate engineering courses. Using data from a project partially funded through the Missouri Department of Transportation, a sustainable infrastructures case study is developed for use in engineering economy. LED luminaires technology is of increasing interest for roadway lighting solutions to state DOTs and local communities due to proposed benefits in fiscal and environmental stewardship, as well as safety and useful life. The case details the implications of LED technology across two of the three pillars of sustainability (economic and environmental) and provides opportunities for analysis by student teams. This paper seeks to promote the use of real-world engineering projects within courses in order to improve learning outcomes and critical thinking skills.

Meeting Name
62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo (2012: May 19-23, Orlando, FL)
Department(s)
Engineering Management and Systems Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
  • Case Study,
  • Engineering Education,
  • Infrastructure Management,
  • Learning Objectives,
  • Transportation,
  • Decision Making,
  • Environmental Technology,
  • Exhibitions,
  • Light Emitting Diodes,
  • Research,
  • Students,
  • Sustainable Development,
  • Critical Thinking Skills,
  • Engineering Problems,
  • Environmental Stewardship,
  • Missouri Department Of Transportations,
  • Undergraduate Engineering Course
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2012 Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
5-1-2012
Publication Date
01 May 2012
Citation Information
Sean Michael Schmidt, Suzanna Long and Kellie S. Grasman. "Updating the Case Study for Complex Engineering Infrastructure Problems" Proceedings of the 62nd IIE Annual Conference and Expo (2012, Orlando, FL) (2012) p. 676 - 681
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/michael-schmidt76629/4/