Using Assignment Choice in Engineering Service Courses

Students taking an introductory engineering class, especially those required to take a “coding class’’ for their non-computer science major, can be very intimidated. This paper explores the implementation of assignment choice in an undergraduate CS-1 course, inspired by the Self-Determination Theory, to alleviate intimidation and enhance student motivation, especially for non-computer science majors. By allowing students to select assignments aligned with course objectives, we cater to diverse interests and learning goals. Preliminary results indicate a decrease in the students that earn a D, F, or withdraw from the course (DFQ rate), with assignment choice compared to traditional delivery methods, in which all students follow a prescribed path. Each assignment is part of their overall grade. We intend to refine this approach and explore its applicability in other engineering service courses. Our goal is to provide instructors with a framework that ensures students learn course objectives while retaining autonomy in their learning journey, thus facilitating continued success in their chosen field of study.