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Session 2457

Parametric Case Studies - Closing the Loop

Wade C. Driscoll Industrial and Systems Engineering Youngstown State University

Abstract

Traditional case studies have proven to be effective means for teaching engineering design. Unfortunately, traditional case studies, in which all students in a class simultaneously work on the same case study, may result in inappropriate levels of student interaction. A parametric case study is a generalization of a traditional case study in which problem parameters vary from one student to another. This ameliorates the problem of inappropriate student interactions, since each student works on a different problem. This advantage accrues at the cost of an additional burden on the instructor who evaluates the students’ work. This paper reports on research that was performed to investigate the feasibility of having the microcomputer - the platform used to deliver the case study to students - also serve to generate base-line solutions to the multitude of problems that result.

1. Introduction

This paper is organized as follows. The next section relates the student outcomes attending traditional case studies to those specified in Engineering Criteria 2000. Section 3 provides an example of a parametric case study and describes a platform for its delivery. Then Section 4 demonstrates proof of concept for the ideal of having the same computer platform that delivers a parametric case study also generate the means to conveniently find baseline solutions for it. A summary, conclusions and extensions appear in the final section.

2. Engineering Criteria 2000 and Traditional Case Studies

The ABET Engineering Criteria 2000 [3] may be paraphrased as specifying that engineering programs must demonstrate that their graduates have an ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering; design and conduct experiments, as well as to analyze and interpret data; design a system, component, or process to meet desired needs; function on multi-disciplinary teams; identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems; communicate effectively; and use the techniques, skills and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice.

In addition, Engineering Criteria 2000 also specifies that engineering programs must also demonstrate that their graduates have an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility; the broad education necessary to understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global/societal

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Driscoll, W. C. (1997, June), Parametric Case Studies Closing The Loop Paper presented at 1997 Annual Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 10.18260/1-2--6725