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Information Service to Collaborate on UB Learning Module Project

The MCEER Information Service, together with the University at Buffalo (UB) Departments of Civil, Structural and Environmental Engineering and Learning and Instruction, was awarded a project to develop and pilot test a prototype learning module on earthquake engineering. The project, part of the University at Buffalo’s UB 2020 initiative, combines UB expertise in extreme event engineering research and science and math education.

Geared towards seventh and eighth grade students, the overall goal of the learning module is to increase student awareness of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics literacy and their role in minimizing the impact of disasters.  The learning module will incorporate online tools, require visualization exercises and offer a virtual learning environment.  The objectives for each lesson plan will correspond to age-appropriate national science and mathematics standards, and include ideas for discussion questions, related resources, and extension activities. The disaster module will start with a digital model of a real engineering problem and will include required geographic, economic, social, and scientific background knowledge. Student groups will design an action plan addressing the initial engineering problem, which will incorporate mathematical analysis of data, logical reasoning, and problem solving.  This flexible module will permit science and mathematics teachers to adapt the resources and address discipline-specific concepts.

The project is entitled “Developing Student Understanding of Disaster-Related STEM Topics Using Authentic Interactive Curriculum Modules.”