Lawrence Whitman

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Lawrence Whitman is an educator and engineering researcher based at Wichita State University, whose work has centered on innovative approaches to STEM education and technical literacy. He is perhaps best known for his pioneering use of LEGO-based learning environments to engage students across multiple educational levels, from K-12 outreach through undergraduate instruction. His 2004 paper, "Using LEGOs to Interest High School Students and Improve K-12 STEM Education," which has garnered 29 citations, introduced a creative factory-simulation model in which students construct LEGO airplanes to experience engineering principles in a hands-on, participatory setting. This work helped establish a compelling case for tangible, playful learning as a gateway into engineering and technology careers. Building on this foundation, Whitman continued refining his pedagogical approach, publishing further research in 2020 on integrating LEGO Mindstorms into undergraduate technical literacy courses, addressing ongoing concerns about declining student interest in STEM fields. Across his career, Whitman has demonstrated a consistent commitment to making engineering education more accessible and engaging, contributing practical, replicable models that instructors at various institutions can adopt to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.