Knowledge Modules and Videos for Basic Design Principles (MoVieDes)
Summary of the Project
The project "Knowledge Modules and Videos for Basic Design Principles (MoVieDes)," spearheaded by Ondřej Rokoš, Paul Vrancken, and Varvara Kouznetsova from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, has been aimed at improving the educational offerings through the creation of knowledge modules on fundamental design principles. These modules are being integrated into the courses Design Principles (4CC40/50), Computer Aided Engineering (4GC00), and Mechanical Design Project (4GC10), along with potential inclusion in other courses within the BSc curriculum. The initiative has been motivated by the challenges students face in understanding core design principles, which are crucial for engineering systems. The Design Principles course has been particularly difficult due to its reliance on synthesizing knowledge from various theoretical courses. The recent transition of 4GC00 and 4GC10 to Challenge Based Learning (CBL) has further highlighted the need for enhanced instructional support. The project involves creating a series of short videos, approximately 15 minutes each, accompanied by slides, to aid students in grasping these principles and applying them in realistic engineering contexts.
Aim of the Project
The MoVieDes project has aimed to address educational challenges by developing knowledge modules focused on two primary topics of the Design Principles course: light and stiff systems, and controlling degrees of freedom. The objective is to create a set of concise, 15-minute videos with accompanying slides, which can also be utilized in other courses. These modules have been designed to improve self-directed learning, enabling students to engage with the material independently of time and location. The expected outcomes include enhanced synthesis of theoretical knowledge, increased student ownership of projects, and improved efficiency in the design process. By exposing students to design principles earlier in their curriculum and within real-world contexts, the project aims to alleviate the high difficulty levels of the course and reduce the time required for project completion. The project has been aligned with the TU/e Strategy 2030, promoting self-directed learning and practical application of knowledge in realistic scenarios. The implementation involves a coordinated effort by teachers and teaching assistants, with professional video recordings facilitated by the TU/e video studio.
Results and learnings
Two modules are developed. Each module consists of 3 to 4 videos. The videos are introduced in Canvas by stating which topics are covered in the videos with links to the videos.
Paul Vrancken has a third topic that he would like to add to the modules. This topic was not covered in the proposal for this pilot.
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