The effects of integrated teaching method on academic achievement and cognitive load in engineering mathematics

The effects of problem-based learning (PBL) and example-based learning (EBL) techniques have been extensively studied. However, the combination of both teaching techniques has not yet been fully researched. Therefore, this quasiexperimental study was conducted to investigate the effects of using integrated teaching method (EBL+PBL) on academic achievement and cognitive load in Engineering Mathematics. A total of 38 students were assigned to the experimental group (n=18) and control group (n=20). A specifically developed post test was used to measure academic achievement, while NASA-TLX questionnaire was used to gauge cognitive load. The present findings revealed that the combination of EBL+PBL produces positive impact on academic achievement as compared to PBL. However, EBL+PBL induced higher cognitive load especially during assessment. The present research has supported the conclusion that integrating EBL+PBL is effective for teaching Engineering Mathematics. The finding has also provided some insights into how to effectively deliver learning contents that involves mathematical elements such physics, electrical circuit analysis, and solid mechanics.