Assessment of undergraduate electrical engineering laboratory studies

A description of several forms of laboratory study is given, and the major educational objectives likely to be attained via each mode analysed. Current practice of laboratory work in British undergraduate electrical engineering courses is then reviewed. The published methods of assessment of these study modes are considered, and the problems of value judgments of human qualities as well as intellectual skill development are highlighted. Particular attention is paid to the project method and the difficulties of this approach for both staff and students, particularly if this approach is to become an increasingly important component of study methods, are examined.