91福利

Designing Engaging, Student-Centered Learning Through Structured Scaffolding and Authentic Assessment

This session will share a student-centered teaching strategy that combines structured scaffolding, active learning, and authentic assessment to enhance engagement and deepen learning in engineering and technology courses. The approach integrates short pre-class micro-tasks, experiential in-class activities, and reflective post-class check-ins that promote student autonomy while providing continuous support. This model has been implemented across undergraduate engineering communication and mechatronics courses, producing measurable improvements in student participation and learning confidence.

The strategy is grounded in constructivist learning theory, cognitive apprenticeship, and evidence-based practices such as think-pair-share, problem-based learning (PBL), and universal design for learning (UDL). Research in engineering education demonstrates that structured scaffolding improves students鈥� ability to transfer knowledge into real-world problem solving, while active and authentic tasks increase motivation and engagement鈥攅specially for diverse learners. By integrating these frameworks, the approach ensures that students are not passive recipients of information but active participants in constructing their understanding.

Students have reported significant positive impacts from these practices, including increased clarity, reduced cognitive overwhelm, higher confidence in technical communication, and stronger collaboration skills. Grades on project-based assessments show noticeable improvement, but the more meaningful change has been in classroom climate: students feel empowered, respected, and more willing to take intellectual risks. The approach also benefits multilingual and neurodiverse learners by offering multiple entry points into learning.

This submission aligns with the conference theme of Engaging Students in Learning and Teaching by showcasing an adaptable, inclusive instructional model that places students at the center and demonstrates how structured engagement can transform learning environments. The session will highlight practical strategies that instructors can adopt in large or small classes, in-person or online.

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