Project-Based Learning in an Element Machine II Course: A Review

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to review project-based learning (PjBL) methods as an effective pedagogy to improve the knowledge and skills of mechanical engineering students in engineering design components. The curriculum should integrate engineering knowledge and skills in design components and processes to produce engineers needed in the industry. In this paper, We reviewed that PjBL in engineering course offers an opportunity for students to experience engineering design components that are a real-world problems and practical knowledge. Students were asked to design a power transmission system for a coffee peeler machine on an Element Machine II course. Direct and indirect assessments were conducted to measure students' performance and perception using two categories: knowledge and skill. The results show that students had demonstrated ability in both cognitive and skill; otherwise, teamwork skill was still an issue. Results from the student perception show that there was a strong correlation (Pearson methods) between knowledge and skills with p = 0.003 and r = 0.607.