Improved hands-on learning experiences
PLATTEVILLE - The UW-Platteville civil and environmental engineering department has recently purchased several hand-held global positioning system (GPS) units to enhance hands-on experiences for students and faculty.
The GPS units allow students to individually collect location and elevation data that can be used to analyze problems and provide engineering solutions. Along with collecting real data, students will learn the value of personal observation and experience through the use of the GPS units.
The goals of the civil and environmental engineering department with respect to the GPS units are to encourage young individuals to pursue technical programs in college, and improve the learning experience and ensure success--with the use of high-tech equipment--of those students studying through this department following their graduation.
The use of the GPS units will be beneficial to several groups and individuals. These people include the Wisconsin Center for Academically Talented Youth (WCATY) Program, women in engineering programs, civil and environmental engineering classes, general engineering classes and teachers and students located in the tri-state area.
Use of the GPS units will also strengthen the relationship between the Pioneer Farm and the civil and environmental engineering department by introducing undergraduate engineering students to the impact of storm water runoff experienced at the Pioneer Farm.
Funding for the hand-held GPS units is provided in part by the UW-Platteville Foundation Opportunity Fund, which awarded nearly $45,000 for 15 grants this year.
The UWP Foundation initiated the fund program in 1998-99, and the total number of grants thus far is 86, with a total monetary value of $411,000.
<< Home