Why are continuous-time signals and systems courses so difficult? How can we make them more accessible?

The introductory continuous-time signals and systems (CTSS) course is widely considered one of the most difficult courses in electrical and computer engineering (ECE) curricula. This workshop will be an interactive discussion about sources of difficulty and what can be done to help improve student learning and understanding. In the first part of the workshop, discussion will be sparked and encouraged through presentation of historical data and directed questions. The goal will be to advance a continually developing understanding of the problem. In the second part of the workshop, attendees will learn about hands-on activities that are being done at Bucknell and Rose-Hulman to help address what the authors think some of the issues are. Attendees will have an opportunity to attempt one of these activities and provide feedback based on the previous discussion about learning difficulties.