Dr. David Benson, assistant professor of Mechanical Engineering
Ph.D. from Michigan State University in Mechanical Engineering with expertise in computational fluid dynamics with a focus on simulation of mixed compression inlets and solar magneto-convection. His current research interests also include cognitive development, educational methods and pedagogy.
Benson finds that Kettering students are highly motivated and he enjoys interacting with them. In the classroom, he works to challenge the advanced students by providing them with practical examples, projects and individualized studies. He also has a strong focus on helping the struggling students "turn the corner" so that they can learn to "synthesize their course background, math skills, and practical knowledge."
He looks for students who possess "motivation; a willingness to push through even when things are incredibly difficult (perseverance); the desire to learn; a focus on content/process rather than the equation or the final answer (we all make mistakes along the way); and a willingness to take risks and lead (initiative)." Although he loves the time he spends in the classroom with students, he especially enjoys working with students who come to him for guidance on projects (pneumatic pogo stick, re-direction of air bag thrust) and students who take his suggestions for projects and run with them (in-situ hood pressure measurements). He was drawn to Kettering because teaching (education) is what he was "meant to do."
Benson would tell prospective students that Kettering, "is a good place to get involved in projects -- students should connect with the fraternities, student groups and individual faculty members so that they can maximize opportunities and really explore engineering." He would also advise admitted students "to dive right in and take the initiative ... time is precious in a 10 week term. Start with a goal, find good people to help you meet that goal and, to borrow a phrase from a major shoe manufacturer, just do it."
Hidden talents and outside interests: As a junior faculty member, Benson spends most of his time developing challenging and supportive classes. His non-teaching terms are spent doing research and building connections with Flint/Detroit area businesses. (Although he does admit to occasionally playing on the PS2 with his son and daughter).
Research Associations:
Specialties:
Computational Fluid Dynamics
Educational Pedagogy and Methods
Mixed-Compression Inlet -- CFD Simulation
Solar Magneto-Convection -- CFD Simulation (Astrophysics)
Publications:
