A mobile telepresence robot: A case study for assessment of a capstone design course

Abstract

This paper presents the assessment scheme used to evaluate that learning outcomes are met in the capstone design course for an undergraduate Mechatronics Engineering program. Included are sample rubrics used to evaluate the design-build-test model which introduces students to the design process frequently used in industry. Although the capstone course is populated with only Mechatronics Engineering students, all projects are interdisciplinary in nature as they include mechanical design, sensor data acquisition, programming, and physical control of actuators. A case study, the Mobile Telepresence Robot (MTR) is offered to provide an example of the scope required in these projects. Feedback from students both on the MTR team and other projects indicates the skills and practices learned in this course are directly applicable to the jobs they secure after graduation.