2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The integration of hands-on physics preparation in pre-engineering programs is essential for strengthening students’ foundational knowledge, engagement, and career readiness, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This study investigates the impact of experiential learning approaches, including laboratory experiments, collaborative projects, and simulations, on the academic performance and professional preparedness of second-year pre-engineering students at HBCU in Maryland. Using a mixed-methods research design, quantitative and qualitative data were collected to assess students' engagement, conceptual understanding, and confidence in applying physics principles to engineering challenges. Findings indicate that hands-on physics activities significantly enhance students' comprehension of theoretical concepts, improve problem-solving skills, and foster greater motivation toward STEM careers. Statistical analyses reveal strong correlations between engagement and conceptual understanding (r = 0.92), as well as engagement and career preparedness (r = 0.73), demonstrating that active participation in hands-on learning is a key driver of both academic success and confidence in professional applications. While a moderate correlation (r = 0.43) was found between conceptual understanding and career preparedness, the results suggest that practical application of knowledge is crucial in bridging the gap between academic learning and workforce readiness. Additionally, a marginally significant difference (p = 0.053) between engagement and career preparedness highlights the role of external factors such as industry exposure in shaping students’ career confidence. By reinforcing the gap between theoretical instruction and real-world engineering applications, this research underscores the critical role of hands-on physics education in shaping a skilled and diverse engineering workforce. The findings advocate enhanced experiential learning opportunities in STEM curricula, ensuring equitable access to high-quality education and professional success for students at HBCUs.