Engineers solve sticky, complicated problems that take grit and perseverance – all to make the world a better place. Because design is everywhere and continues to play an increasingly important role in everyday life, EDSGN 100 students learn to see the big picture in order to improve their global communities. Students are taught how to communicate well, work as a team, lead groups, and to have empathy. Students are encouraged to approach problems with an open mind because no problem has just one solution. They are taught the skills to be life-long learners by understanding that the process of discovery is at the root of real learning.
Concepts
Students will apply engineering design to address design concepts to
- explore the design space, including stakeholder needs, constraints, and desired outcomes
- address the design opportunity and achieve desired outcomes
- select concepts that best address the desired outcomes
- model the solutions to predict behavior
- test solutions and evaluate how they address the desired outcome
- refine solutions as necessary
- communicate the observed outcomes
Students will use systems thinking and apply it to engineering design to
- engage in bounded, open-ended design opportunities
- design within realistic constraints such as public health and safety, and/or global, cultural, social, environmental, economic, or other factors as appropriate
- recognize system boundaries and diagram system components
- consider how designs impact the larger ecosystem, including human well-being and social, societal and ecological impacts
Students will develop the professional skills necessary for becoming a successful engineer by
- associating elements in their education and background that align with aspects of world-class engineers and commit to continued professional development
- collaborating and contributing toward diverse, synergistic teams
- developing innovative and creative design solutions
- describing the importance of academic and personal integrity
- incorporating ethical principles into engineering practice
- applying a global perspective to engineering design
Students will communicate engineering concepts and design by
- developing and applying visualization techniques in design
- hand-sketching engineering concepts
- developing and using computer-drafted models to communicate designs
- presenting designs and outcomes in a professional manner, both verbally and in writing
- considering audiences and communicating efforts appropriately
Students will gain experience in hands-on fabrication while developing a "maker" mindset by
- using simple tools found in the SEDTAPP maker spaces
- developing test methods to verify the suitability of their designs to meet engineering specifications and to achieve desired outcomes
- building models and prototypes of design solutions
- identifying the characteristics of a “maker” and connecting them to the engineering discipline
Skills
Design Projects
During the first half the semester, students will be introduced to the design process through one large design project or a series of shorter design projects.
Students will complete a common client-sponsored project during the second half of the semester.
Modules
Students will learn engineering concepts and skills organized into the following five modules:
- World Class Engineering
- Innovation and Creativity
- Professional Communications
- Making
- Seeing the Big Picture
Graphics
Students will learn the following hand-graphic techniques:
- Freehand sketching
- Multiview projections
- Isometric
- Dimensioning
- Reading and interpreting a technical drawing
Instructions may also choose to teach these optional techniques:
- Section views
- Obliques
- Hand-drawn engineering drawings
Making
Students will learn elements of making that may include additive manufacturing, hands-on, low fidelity prototyping, and traditional manufacturing.
Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE)
Students will learn concepts and skills in the following CAE software:
- SolidWorks
- Microsoft Excel