The goal of the VIE project is to vertically integrate educational activities using new program structures, learning resources, and organizational practices. Specific objectives include the following:
• Curriculum integration through the learning stream model
• Application of the learning stream model to research-based learning
• Integrated information resources to support interdisciplinary learning streams
• Extension of the learning stream model to pre-college engineering education
The Learning Stream Model
A learning stream is a new basic curriculum element, or building block, for integrating subject matter across traditional courses, and in some cases, across disciplines. This concept offers a higher-dimensioned problem solving approach, from a disciplinary perspective rather than from a single subject. It also offers a balance between fundamentals and applications, and between theory and practice.
The pilot learning stream implemented at Iowa State University is discussed in detail at the Learning Streams link to the left.
A strong community of VIE scholars and professors have assisted in making this program a success. Faculty and students work closely together in understanding the application of design knowledge. This provides consistency in teaching and learning, and provides an enhanced learning experience for students, as faculty mentors can connect more with individual learning styles and capabilities.
VIE: to invite, challenge, strive, and compete.
