Teaching Science Principles in a Textiles Laboratory Manual: A Proposed Prototype

Oklahoma State University, Stillwater OK

Investigators

Abstract

Interdisciplinary (99) The overall project goals are to develop and compare two prototype modules for a science-based and technology-driven textile laboratory manual and accompanying visual media that integrate science principles, scientific methods, and evaluation of textile test results. Existing instructional materials used for textile laboratory experiences and assignments do not integrate science principles into the laboratory curriculum, nor do they draw upon science principles in the explanations of lab results. An understanding of the fundamental relationship between the underlying science principles and the observed textile performance is critical to understanding science principles as explanations and predictors in future professional applications. These textile laboratory materials are integrating the teaching of science principles and scientific methods into laboratory instruction and are developing the students' use of science principles to explain observed lab outcomes.