Project Based Learning In A Freshman Computer Graphics Course
Rafiqul I. Noorani, Louis Rodriguez, Michael Givens, Drew Christensen, Joe Foyos · 2020
This paper describes project-based learning in a freshman engineering course entitled, Engineering Graphics and Design at Loyola Marymount University.The major course requirement is to design and build a solid model of a real-world product.The course has been recently modernized to meet the challenges of conceptual design using graphics tools.The course introduces the students through a hands-on design projects.The engineering graphics topics include orthographic views, isometric projections, sectional views and dimensioning.Computer-Aided Drafting tools such as AutoCAD, Inventor and SolidWorks are introduced for both 2D and 3D.The CAD tools are also used for geometric analysis (Cosmos/M) and building solid models by rapid prototyping.The projects are conducted in student teams.The students utilize both written and verbal communication skills when they complete their projects.The work is written-up in a final report, and their results are given in an oral team presentation.The goal of this paper is to describe and discuss the project-based learning in our freshman engineering graphics course.The evaluation of student learning will also be discussed.This paper will describe how projects and teams are selected, the team dynamics, project leadership and conflict resolution as they relate to each team.Several real-world projects such as design and prototyping of Boeing 737 aircraft, a functional flashlight will be described.This paper will also discuss the assessment tools for evaluating the team-based projects.