Manufacturing Integrated Learning Lab (Mill): A curriculum model for hands-on manufacturing education

Abstract

The lack of hands-on experiences in specific manufacturing processes has been identified as one of the major competency gaps in manufacturing engineering education. Partly in response to this, funding agencies like SME Education Foundation (SMEEF) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) have supported efforts to address this issue. This paper describes the Manufacturing Integrated Learning Lab (MILL), which is an outcome of these efforts. MILL is an NSF funded multi-institutional project, whose focus is the development of a hands-on approach to manufacturing education. This offers students skills that directly prepare them for careers in manufacturing, design and product realization. Four knowledge areas with corresponding detailed learning outcomes were identified for study namely: (1) drafting/design, (2) manufacturing process, (3) process engineering, and (4) CAD/CAM. Based on these, a core curriculum shared between the partner institutions was developed. This encapsulates the MILL manufacturing competency model. Assessment instruments to measure student learning were also developed. Sample test items were developed for all competencies in a series of internal meetings held among MILL Project staff. The preliminary results from a field test indicate high levels of student achievement under the MILL paradigm, and excellent structure of the assessment instruments. © 2011 American Society for Engineering Education.