Research-backed efficiency
SEFI 2019: Innovative monitoring of study time and performance and its efficiency in first-semester Calculus course for engineers
“ Calculus is the most important undergraduate mathematics course in engineering programmes at Budapest University of Technology and Economics, in which continuous study is essential for deep knowledge acquisition. However, it is common among students to study in a campaign-like way, so that they can succeed in the course without acquiring profound knowledge. The changing learning environment of the 21st century enables us to teach through methods utilising the technical tools of the age and integrating them into the learning process. In 2012, Institute of Mathematics at BME launched a new project aimed at teaching Calculus with an innovative method combining test-effect and online education that provides continuous practice for students with heterogeneous level of knowledge and learning strategy. Our goal was to examine practising behaviour of students during the semester and its effect on the midterm-test results. Using EduBase Online Educational Platform, from September 2018, we continuously monitored the practising of 115 first-year mechatronics and energy engineering students, their practising performance and time spent on weekly issued tests. The recorded learning patterns show that as the end of the semester approaches and duties increase, students are spending less time on practicing and focusing rather on topics not studied before. Additionally, statistical analysis proved that students who spread their total learning time out for several weeks were significantly more successful than their counterparts studying campaign-like. Moreover, we have established the learning-map for the group and introduced an efficiency function indicating the necessary level of practising to complete Calculus with profound knowledge. ”