Center for Engineering Learning & Teaching

The Center for Engineering Learning & Teaching (CELT) is focused on two synergistic activities: research on engineering education and improving engineering teaching through instructional development. This dual-role structure is based on an awareness that a solid engineering education research base is needed to inform educators about how their students learn and that this research should drive and support effective teaching. Similarly, a broad understanding of what takes place in engineering classrooms is important for pinpointing significant areas for research. Since 1998, CELT's model has proven successful in the University of Washington College of Engineering and has had an impact on engineering education at national and international levels.

Our Mission:

• To conduct internationally recognized research in engineering learning,
• To promote teaching effectiveness in engineering classrooms at the UW
• To be a model for effecting change in Colleges of Engineering

• research in engineering student learning

  CELT educational researchers work on funded research projects with colleagues from the University of Washington and across the nation to conduct research that advances engineering education. CELT's research agenda includes many aspects of scholarship in engineering education. Research is ongoing in the areas of design learning, knowledge integration of learners, understanding students' learning experiences and their preparation for professional practice, and integrating research findings with teaching innovations.

   more>>

• instructional services at UW

  CELT instructional consultants build on current research to offer a diverse set of program elements with a goal to improve engineering learning and teaching in the College of Engineering at the University of Washington. This includes working with individual instructors, conducting workshops and seminars, and actively participating in strategic-level initiatives.

   more>>

Download CELT Overview

Center for the Advancement of Engineering Education

CELT had the lead role in the Center for the Advancement of Engineering Education (CAEE). Begun in 2003, CAEE is a multi-institution, multi-method research center with $12 million in funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF). CAEE conducted research into undergraduate engineering learning, faculty teaching, the use of portfolios in preparing graduate students for teaching careers, and building capacity in engineering education research. CAEE's final report (left), along with many other resources, are available for download on the CAEE web site.