Developing Entrepreneurial Mindset through iOLab-based Activities in Introductory Physics Courses

Abstract

The introductory physics sequence at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology develops a common knowledge base for 500+ freshman students, with all majors required to complete the first two courses. In pursuit of enhancing our courses with active learning in a hybrid environment due to COVID-19 restrictions, we implemented iOLab-based exercises during the Winter and Spring quarters of the 2020/2021 academic year. The open-ended activities were designed to pique students’ intrinsic curiosity and help students develop more connections between theory and "how things work” through demos and experimental design. Students also identified opportunities to create value by exploring applications of sensors in the world around them. These skills directly relate to the students’ entrepreneurial mindset, which was assessed by a pre- and post-ESEMA survey. We also sought to understand the effectiveness and student perception of the iOLab in a hybrid setting through their written comments and attitudes from a post-StRIP survey.