WHERE HAVE ALL THE TRADITIONAL CLASSROOM SETTINGS GONE - THE USE OF LARGE-SCALE, PUBLIC-SECTOR PROJECTS TO ILLUSTRATE A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH TO PROBLEM-SOLVING

This work describes the evolution and potential of an elective course for students who have already been exposed to the standard techniques of problem solving as presented in traditional courses. Students apply these techniques to large scale problems in directed multidisciplinar y project teams. In doing so, they are provided with a unique learning experience allowing them to serve as a resource to the community. Cou rse projects described here include the promotion of a failing retail district; the formulation, implementation and monitoring of litter red uction strategies; the economic evaluation of using inmate labor to cl ean public areas; and economic comparisons of recycling strategies for used tires.