Credits are earned by solving problems rather than by completing isolated courses. Problems are selected for the curriculum because they are common and important in the FST field. General and technical education are integrated. In order to solve FST problems students learn, demonstrate, and apply general education skills, such as reading, writing, math and communication. Student and faculty roles change.
Students assume responsibility for their own education.
Faculty members become resources, evaluators, and tutors to the students, while guiding them in problem-solving efforts. Graduates are better prepared. Students are learning by using the same approach that professional technicians use to solve problems. Dissemination activities will include establishing a web site with links to other problem-based learning sites, and conference presentations by project faculty and staff.