Project Based Learning Through Engineering Design

Overview

This template, created for the Numbers app, is intended to be customized and given to students in order to guide them through a problem based project. By sequentially completing the tasks in each tab, students will work through a version of Engineering Design to define a problem, design and build a prototype to solve the problem, and then engage in an iterative process to test and improve the prototype.

Why Use Engineering Design?

Engineering design can be used by anyone who wants to create something that solves a problem, not just engineers. It is an iterative process where problems are identified, solutions are developed and tested, failures observed, and improvements are made based upon these observations. Since this process begins with identifying real-world problems, using it with your students is one way to accomplish problem and project based learning. It can also enable STEM integration and inter-disciplinary learning.

The engineering design process.

Tips for Using This Template with Students:

• Customize It! Delete, add, or change content and prompts as needed in order to fit the content and subject you are teaching, desired outcomes, student abilities, time constraints, and any other unique classroom conditions. You will want to start by deleting the first tab or moving it to the end as it is for you and not for students. Text in red and brackets, [like this], are notes and advice for you and should be deleted. 
• Chunk Grading: As students work through this guide in the Numbers app, each tab, once completed, can submitted for grading in your learning management system. Chunking in this way can turn a large project into smaller and more manageable pieces for your students and ensure that they are following a design process. 

Chunk work: Each individual tab can be exported and shared as a PDF once completed.

• Get Hands-On: Following an engineering design process lends itself to hands-on learning and can enable students to create a physical product that solves a problem. If available, make use of community, school, and/or classroom makerspaces and any materials, resources, and equipment that you have access to. While high tech equipment, like 3D printers, can be useful it is by no means necessary. Simple materials like cardboard and popsicle sticks can go a long way.

Attachments

Engineering Design Workbook.numbers

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