<p>How is RHIT qualitatively different from larger schools? Classes are smaller, and professors reportedly more engaged, but is the approach to teaching and learning unique? Are there more hands-on opportunities, more team-based projects, etc? The curriculum isn't described on the website except to list classes. How those classes are conducted and the general teaching philosophy is not discussed.</p>
<p>The curriculum as described on the website will appear very similar to other schools, but the differences are in the hands-on activities and group projects, as you mention. I am taking a class now called Measurement Systems which is essentially all lab and 80% of the class is spent on one big group project. This is possible because with smaller classes the professors can meet with groups regularly, and groups have freedom to investigate different areas but still have guidance and feedback from the professor. Team projects also work well at a small engineering school since students know most students in their major and can choose people with whom they work well. Another major difference is that Rose is focused on undergraduate engineering education, so every professor is focused on teaching rather than research or getting published.</p>