Abstract:

This paper presents a distinctive educational approach within the realm of Engineering Education, specifically in the domain of Home Automation, a subject in the 4th year of Mechatronics and Robotics Engineering. The initiative involved a group of twelve students undertaking the real-world project of automating a residential property. This case study delves into the innovative project management strategies employed, the evaluation processes, and the profound learning experiences of both the educator and the students through project-based learning (PBL).

The project's execution emphasized practical, hands-on experience, aligning with the PBL methodology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. This approach not only fostered technical skills pertinent to home automation systems but also cultivated essential competencies such as teamwork, problem-solving, and project management. The paper elucidates the pedagogical framework and the adaptive strategies implemented to navigate the complexities of applying theoretical knowledge to a tangible project.

This study will present the development process of the educational tool designed for this course and a preliminary version of the results obtained from its implementation. The early findings indicate a marked improvement in students' confidence and skills, underscoring the effectiveness of PBL in engineering education. The positive outcomes highlight the potential of integrating real-world projects into the curriculum to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

This case study contributes valuable insights into the implementation of project-based learning in engineering disciplines, demonstrating its impact on student learning and engagement. It proposes a replicable model for educators seeking to enrich their teaching methodologies and enhance the educational experience in engineering and related fields.

Keywords:

Project-based learning, engineering education, home automation.