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Lookup NU author(s): Professor Cheng Chin
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Difficulties in teaching multi-disciplinary subject such as mechatronics system design module in Departments of Mechatronics Engineering at Temasek Polytechnic arise from the gap in experience and skill among staff and students that have different background in mechanical, computer and electrical engineering within the mechatronics department. The departments piloted a new vertical stream curricula model (VSCAM) to enhance student learning in mechatronics system design through integration of educational activities from first to second year of the course. In this case study, problem-based learning (PBL) method on an autonomous vacuum robot in the mechatronics systems design module was proposed to allow the students to have hands-on experience in the mechatronics system design. The proposed works include in PBL consists of seminar sessions, weekly works and project presentation to provide holistic assessment on team works and individual contributions. At the end of VSCAM, an integrative evaluation was conducted using confidence logs, attitude surveys and questionnaires. It was found that the activities were quite appreciated by the participating staff and students. Hence, PBL has served as an effective pedagogical framework for teaching multidisciplinary subjects in the mechatronics engineering education if adequate guidances and support are given to staff and students.
Author(s): Chin CS, Yue KM
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: European Journal of Engineering Education
Year: 2011
Volume: 36
Issue: 5
Pages: 485-504
Print publication date: 13/10/2011
ISSN (print): 0304-3797
ISSN (electronic): 1469-5898
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03043797.2011.603039
DOI: 10.1080/03043797.2011.603039
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