Work in Process: Transformative Integration of Problem-Based Learning and Entrepreneurial Mindset in Early and Middle Stages of Mechanical Engineering: A Focus on Statics and Dynamics
- Conference
- Location
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Portland, Oregon
- Publication Date
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June 23, 2024
- Start Date
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June 23, 2024
- End Date
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July 12, 2024
- Conference Session
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MECH - Technical Session 11: Integration of Problem-Solving and Design Thinking
- Tagged Division
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Mechanical Engineering Division (MECH)
- Tagged Topic
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Diversity
- Permanent URL
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https://peer.asee.org/48333
Paper Authors
Danahe Marmolejo
Saint Louis University
orcid.org/0009-0008-5365-9366
Dr. Dana Marmolejo has been an assistant professor of practice in the Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Department at the School of Science and Engineering since 2022. With a background in Chemical Engineering, her expertise lies in Thermodynamics and Process Systems Engineering.
Dr. Marmolejo's primary focus is teaching engineering courses, mostly for first- and second-year students. At SLU, she teaches courses such as Engineering Fundamentals, Statics, Dynamics, Thermodynamics, and Heat Transfer. She has also taught other subjects, including Fluid Dynamics, University Physics, Introduction to Chemistry, and Process Design, at different institutions of higher education in the past.
Originally from Guanajuato, Mexico, Dr. Marmolejo obtained her Undergraduate Degree from the University of Guanajuato before pursuing her Graduate Degree at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway.
Currently, her research interests revolve around enhancing engineering education and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in learning environments.
Chris Carroll P.E.
Saint Louis University
orcid.org/0000-0001-9250-8503
Dr. Carroll is an Associate Professor and the Chair of the Department of Civil Engineering at Saint Louis University. His experimental research interests focus on reinforced and prestressed concrete, while his educational research interests focus primarily on the use of experiential learning techniques.
Scott A. Sell
Saint Louis University
orcid.org/0000-0002-6785-3193
Scott A. Sell, Ph.D. is currently an Associate Professor and the Biomedical Engineering Program Coordinator in Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology at Saint Louis University. Prior to joining SLU in August of 2012, Dr. Sell received his
Abstract
This research initiative explores the innovative integration of problem-based learning (PBL) and entrepreneurial mindset learning (EML) in the early and middle stages of mechanical engineering education, with a specific emphasis on Statics and Dynamics. This transformative approach aims to provide students with a well-rounded educational experience, combining theoretical foundations, practical applications, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
In the early stages, foundational statics and dynamics courses serve as platforms for theoretical exploration and problem-solving. The PBL component introduces real-world engineering challenges, fostering proactive thinking. Students engage in two dynamic projects:
1. Truss Bridge Design (Statics): - Students undertake the design, calculation, and testing of a truss bridge. - Theoretical statics principles guide load-bearing calculations, stress distribution, and structural analysis. - A physical prototype is created and subjected to controlled testing, providing hands-on experience and reinforcing a practical understanding of statics principles.
2. Pendulum-Powered Hockey Stick Puck Launcher (Dynamics): - Students design, calculate and implement a pendulum-powered hockey stick puck launcher. - Theoretical dynamics concepts guide calculations for trajectory and energy transfer. - A physical prototype is tested to validate theoretical expectations, providing practical insights into dynamic principles.
Throughout both projects, an entrepreneurial mindset is cultivated by incorporating considerations of market needs, user experiences, and broader applications. This intentional integration ensures that students not only grasp theoretical concepts but also understand the practical implications of their engineering solutions in real-world scenarios.
In addition to the projects, the research incorporates an established survey to gauge the impact of the implemented PBL and EML elements. The Entrepreneurial Minded Learning (EML) survey, adapted from the Engineering and Science Entrepreneurial Mindset Assessment (ESEMA), is utilized before and after the project implementation. This survey assesses students' perceptions and understanding of entrepreneurial concepts, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the impact and effectiveness of the integrated approach.
This research aims to demonstrate the transformative potential of integrating PBL and EML in the early and middle stages of mechanical engineering education, using statics and dynamics courses as foundational pillars. The combination of theoretical knowledge, practical application, and entrepreneurial thinking seeks to prepare students for the challenges and dynamism of the evolving field of mechanical engineering.
Marmolejo, D., & Carroll, C., & Sell, S. A. (2024, June), Work in Process: Transformative Integration of Problem-Based Learning and Entrepreneurial Mindset in Early and Middle Stages of Mechanical Engineering: A Focus on Statics and Dynamics Paper presented at 2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition, Portland, Oregon. https://peer.asee.org/48333
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