Abstract:

This paper presents the outcomes of a comprehensive research project aimed at enhancing academic planning experiences for mechanical and aerospace engineering students through the development of a smart and intuitive student version of an in-house academic planning software. The project employed a multifaceted approach, including surveys, data analysis, and stakeholder collaboration, to gather feedback and derive user interface design requirements and algorithm specifications tailored specifically to the diverse needs and preferences of the target student population.

Through targeted surveys administered to students from various academic years, GPA levels, specific curricula, and interests within aerospace and mechanical engineering, including those pursuing minors, a wealth of valuable insights was obtained regarding academic planning challenges, preferences, and expectations. Leveraging advanced data analysis techniques, common themes and patterns were identified, leading to the derivation of user interface design requirements and algorithm specifications that accurately reflect the diverse perspectives and input gathered from the student participants.

The resulting user interface design requirements encompassed layout, navigation, features, and functionalities desired by mechanical and aerospace engineering students, ensuring a user-centric approach to software development. Additionally, algorithm specifications were defined to support intelligent features such as course suggestion algorithms, personalized academic roadmaps, and schedule optimization functionalities, addressing the unique academic needs of different student demographics.

The collaborative efforts of the project team, comprising data analysts, user experience researchers, and student representatives, facilitated the successful alignment of software development efforts with the varied needs and preferences of mechanical and aerospace engineering students. The paper concludes with reflections on the implications of the derived requirements and specifications for the development of a tailored academic planning solution and offers recommendations for future research and software implementation in educational contexts.

Keywords:

Technology, education, development, academic planning.