Service-Learning Case Study in Heat Transfer

Abstract

This paper describes the implementation and the impact of a service-learning project in a heat transfer course for undergraduate engineering students. The students visited low-income households in the Detroit area and installed insulation materials on doors and windows thereby conserving energy and reducing heating costs during the cold months. The students collected information about the materials, dimensions, and relevant engineering parameters. They used the information to calculate the resulting dollar amount of energy savings. There were interactions with a university office in charge of assisting the faculty in using service learning by developing course-relevant community-service projects. There was collaboration with a nonprofit organization that promotes the development of resource efficient homes through training and technical assistance. Data were first gathered about the students’ awareness and attitudes regarding the relationship between engineering work and society. Students rated themselves in leadership attributes such as empathy, awareness, conceptualization, and the community, and also in social justice interests such as the dignity of the human person, the common good, rights, responsibilities and poverty. After conducting the project, they reflected on their experience. Analysis of the students’ responses clearly showed that they became more aware and perceptive of their role as engineers in a societal context.