Implementing Collaborative Project-Based Learning using the Tablet PC to enhance student learning in engineering and computer science courses

Increasing the retention rate of engineering/ computer science students and enhancing student design skills are two major challenges in engineering education. This paper presents a team effort to implement Collaborative Project-based Learning (CPBL) using Tablet PC technology in a broad spectrum of engineering and computer science courses from freshman to senior level. Presented here are a number of innovative teaching strategies to create a more friendly and interactive learning environment to address the aforementioned challenges for minority students. Since Fall 2009, eight innovative pilot courses have been designed and conducted. Assessment results revealed that the implementation of Tablet PC based CPBL had brought transformational changes to the traditional engineering classrooms to support student centered-learning. The paper also describes the impact of Tablet PC based teaching strategy on lecture styles, teaching effectiveness and student learning outcomes from both the faculty and students' perspectives.