Abstract:

The perceived lack of connection between mathematics and engineering courses in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is a common challenge in Spain, and addressing this issue is crucial for helping students understand the importance of mathematical concepts in their engineering studies. The authors describe in this paper a case from their experience with GeoGebra in the subject of Graphic Engineering, which 1st year midshipmen take as part of their academic training at the Defense University Center in the Spanish Naval Academy (CUD-ENM). The subject is scheduled for the autumn semester, worth 6 ECTS, covers the entire language of technical drawing and has a very important practical component.

This study aims to identify the effect of using GeoGebra on the conceptual knowledge of Bezier curves in third-year mechanical engineering students. Bezier curves are frequently used in mechanical design and computer graphics for shaping complex curves. They are a versatile tool, offering engineers the ability to create a wide range of customized components in various industries, such as robotics, aerospace, automotive or biomechanics, due to their flexibility. In fact, many design tools, like Adobe Illustrator or Autodesk Inventor, incorporate Bezier curves for precise and flexible shape manipulation.

Participants of this study were 47 third year mechanical engineering students. After learning the use of GeoGebra and studying the theoretical concepts of Bezier curves in a conventional classroom, a Likert scale survey was used to collect quantitative data. The results provided exploratory insights on the effectiveness of hands-on activities using GeoGebra for enhancing undergraduate engineering student’s active learning while providing them with an online modelling tool that can be harnessed to emphasize how mathematical concepts are essential for solving practical engineering tools. This approach not only addresses the gap but also provides students with valuable skills applicable to their engineering careers.

Keywords:

Graphic Engineering, GeoGebra, Bezier curves, active learning.