Instructional Module in Fourier Spectral Analysis , Based on Principles of “ How People Learn ”

This paper describes the design and evaluation of an instructional module for teaching/learning Fourier spectral analysis, with emphasis on biomedical applications. The module is based on the principles of “How People Learn” (HPL) as embodied in the Legacy cycle. This cycle is a particular instantiation of problembased learning and includes components explicitly aimed at providing context and motivation, facilitating exploration, developing in-depth understanding, and incorporating opportunities for self-assessment. In the spectral analysis module, traditional teaching methods are augmented with small group discussions, peer-to-peer learning, a Web-based tutorial, and an interactive demonstration. Assessment included the development of rubrics for scoring student understanding of key concepts, revealing that students who used the module demonstrated better understanding relative to students who studied the material using traditional methods. Survey results and comments indicate that students generally liked the interactive tutorial and demonstration, as well as the structure provided by the HPL framework.