Abstract:

Project-based learning is a dynamic method to inspire students to obtain a deeper understanding of the subjects, apply and integrate knowledge they are studying, and emphasize direct student involvement. The approach is traditionally used in higher level courses (including capstone design projects,) as it is more difficult to integrate project-based learning with lower level content based courses. Introduction to Engineering Design is a required course for all engineering freshmen at our university. This paper presents examples and effectiveness of this approach for Introduction to Engineering Design for Electrical and Computer Engineering major students.

Introduction to Engineering Design is a 1 hour lecture, 4 hour lab, 3 credit course. The following topics are introduced to Electrical and Computer engineering students in the lecture: technical writing, presenting technical data to non-technical audience, problem definition, creative & critical thinking, ethics and product liability, intellectual property, and sustainable design. The lab section includes 4 skills labs: introduction to basic circuits, circuit simulations, programming basics, and electronic component datasheets. Design projects are assigned during the semester.

Evaluations were based on student surveys (course evaluations) and student work. 66 students took the course and the survey in the past four years. 98% of students “agree” or “strongly agree” that project-based learning improved their skills and techniques in Electrical and Computer Engineering field. 85% of students “agree” or “strongly agree” that project-based learning helped them to improved problem solving. 92% of students “agree” or “strongly agree” that project-based learning integrated theory and applications. 87% of students “agree” or “strongly agree” that project-based learning improved team skills.

Keywords:

Project-based learning, dynamic, introduction to engineering design.