Integrated teaching model in graduate aerospace classes: A trial with compressible flow aerodynamics

Abstract

Most of the graduate aerospace classes are dominated by complex analysis and a plethora of equations. As such, without proper context, it is very easy for a student to lose sight of the big picture, which hinders them from critically thinking about the knowledge they gained and its applicability in the real world. The recent surge of the modern pedagogical practices at the University of Dayton such as student-centered learning, active learning, co-teaching, problem/project based learning, entrepreneurial mindset learning, flipped classroom, etc., are largely focused on undergraduate classes but not in graduate classes comparatively. This paper documents a teaching model where the homework, projects, activities, lectures and independent studies are all integrated on a single platform (portfolio) in an endeavor to motivate graduate students to practice sustainable learning (long-term learning) and promote critical thinking skills. The author implemented this model for the first time in a graduate compressible flow aerodynamics class with the "portfolio" as a platform of integration. The paper also discusses the application of this model in the compressible flow class with examples, students' reflections and feedback. Students found this model to be different and more effective than traditional graduate classes and were able to connect, apply, understand and appreciate the relationship between the complex mathematical equations and the real-life applications. It was also found that creating a portfolio takes more time and effort when compared to traditional exam based class and the workload might need to be reduced.