Improving Class Performance in STEM Using Pareto Technique

Abstract

This paper is a report on the application of a quality improvement technique commonly used in industries to the teaching and learning process in an engineering technology program. An instrument for assessing learning outcomes was designed to determine specific problems that inhibit learning in the program, and their frequencies of occurrence. Based on the data collected, Pareto method was used to determine the vital few, i.e., the few errors committed 80 percent of the time so that class overall performance can be greatly improved by giving deference to these few but most important problems, within limited time and resources. The study cited in this correspondence shows that when Pareto technique is well applied in a teaching/learning process, it results in an improvement of individual performances for an overwhelming majority of the class. This technique is suitable for all science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.