Pedagogical considerations in use of online problem sets in technical courses

Abstract

This paper discusses the author's experience with using the LON-CAPA learning management system (LMS) for on-line problem set delivery in seven civil and environmental engineering, engineering technology, landscape architecture, and plant science courses offered at the University of Delaware over more than 14 years. Courses are delivered in-person but with a substantial "flipped classroom" component. LON-CAPA 1 is a free, open-source, LMS developed and supported by Michigan State University. LON-CAPA includes sophisticated testing and assessment components that provide a variety of formats for online homework (HW) problems. A review of literature and the author's experience form the basis for discussion of the pedagogical considerations associated with use of online problem sets that count for a significant portion of student grades. Advantages of online problem sets include: significant reduction in if not elimination of cheating, better more individualized student/instructor interaction, and increased motivation for students to engage actively with the material and complete assignments successfully. Online problem set characteristics promote these results through immediate feedback, support of problem-based and collaborative learning, and facilitation of mastery-based learning and grading.