2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

This work-in-progress (WIP) paper shares findings at Year 1 of “Collaborative Research: Innovating Quantum-Inspired Learning for Undergraduates in Research and Engineering (INQUIRE),” a 5-year Improving Undergraduate STEM Education project funded by the National Science Foundation. The project brings together quantum engineering and engineering education researchers at two public land-grant research universities in State X and State Y. The team aims to develop and establish a new paradigm for quantum-inspired learning for undergraduate students, which can then serve as a platform and may be adopted and customized across disciplines and institutions. The work detailed in this paper pertains to activities and developments at the University of X. Specifically, this WIP addresses two research questions in the context of the quantum information science and technology (QIST) software course, Introduction to Quantum Computing: (1) What are the barriers undergraduate students face on their pathways to building a knowledge base in QIST? (2) How does INQUIRE address the knowledge base need and lower the barriers to QIST entry? 
We have developed new teaching modules that include a diverse range of instructional techniques. These techniques involve using multimedia-based learning (MBL), simulation-based learning (SBL), and hands-on programming for experiential learning. Most lectures are designed with a focus on MBL. We have incorporated various SBL tools into the course, including Quantum Spice to simulate and design Superconductor-based quantum computing hardware, Spin Quantum Gate Lab to simulate semiconductor-based quantum computing hardware, and Qiskit to program quantum software and algorithms. These tools enable students to directly apply quantum concepts in their assignments, providing more immersive and hands-on experience.
To measure the student learning experiences and the effectiveness of the new teaching modules introduced, a mixed method approach has been designed. At the beginning of Fall 2023 semester, we distributed a baseline survey to the enrolled students in the quantum computing course. The result of the baseline survey showed that the students were highly motivated and genuinely curious about the conceptual working of the QIST. Currently, we are in the process of evaluating the effectiveness of the newly designed teaching modules. This assessment is being carried out through the implementation of a comprehensive mid-semester survey. At the end of the semester, we will administer a survey to complement the course evaluation. This will inform the follow-up semi-structured interviews with undergraduate students, the instructional team, and subject matter experts. To validate and triangulate the qualitative and quantitative data gathered through surveys, interviews, and course evaluations, we will align them with the students' actual performance in the course. Then, a comparison will be made against preliminary results from previous iterations of the course.
The immediate next steps for the QIST software track will be curriculum mapping. Concurrently, we will implement newly developed modules for the QIST hardware courses at University X and Y in the Spring semester and apply a similar mixed-method approach.