University of Arkansas Recognized in Knovel's University Challenge

The University of Arkansas was among eight universities to have more than 100 participants in Knovel’s 2011 University Challenge. The Knovel Challenge compels students to solve problems using Knovel, a Web-based application that provides technical information for engineers and engineering students, using an aggregate database and analytical and search tools. Students who correctly answer three questions from various engineering disciplines are entered in a drawing.

The worldwide competition, which launches each fall, has become a popular way for university librarians to introduce top-notch library resources to students as they learn how to research, problem solve, and prepare for a competitive workforce. This year, the contest had unprecedented participation: 5,600 students from 600 universities in 93 countries.

Patricia Kirkwood, the engineering and mathematics librarian and associate professor, explained that more than 750 students from the University of Arkansas entered the contest this year. In fact, participation in the 2011 competition was a requirement for students in the freshmen engineering program at the University of Arkansas.

"We want them to learn how to use high quality resources, and the Knovel Challenge shows them that that's easier than expected,” explained Kirkwood. “Unlike Web search engines, Knovel searches always find data and information from reliable technical resources. You don't have to pore through a page of questionable options."

Eighteen students won prizes in the Knovel University Challenge drawing, including University of Arkansas student Zach Kovach, who won an iPod Nano.