Dr. Marcus Pandy
Dr. Marcus Pandy, an associate professor in biomedical engineering, is interested in applying the principles of mechanics and control theory to describe and explain the relationships between structure and function of the human body. However, his interest goes beyond that of a researcher to that of a teacher. How can he enhance student understanding of biomedical topics? As a member of the NSF VaNTH Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Educational Technologies, Marcus is working with learning scientists to create challenge-based instructional modules. These modules use the How People Learn framework that is based on research about learning and provides implications for teaching and assessment. Currently, Marcus has created a module to introduce students to elementary concepts in mechanics of movement. Materials incorporated into the design of the module include videotaped and web-delivered interviews with experts on biomechanics, mathematical exercises to test a student’s understanding of basic concepts, and computer simulations, which allow novices to test their own hypotheses.