What do students actually do in project-based engineering classes?
In a project-based engineering class, students typically define or clarify a given or real-world problem, research it, set requirements, and then design, build or program, test, and improve a solution. They often divide roles within a team, hold progress meetings, and revise their work when tests reveal problems. The course may assess the final product as well as the report, presentation, and reasoning behind the decisions. The exact activities vary by field and course.
Key points
- Work usually covers problem analysis, design, implementation or construction, testing, and iteration.
- Students may divide responsibilities and manage meetings and progress as a team.
- Assessment may include the process, documentation, and presentation, not only the final result.
Things to check
- Whether the work is individual or team-based, how much hands-on work is required, and how it is assessed depend on the university, department, and course; check the relevant syllabus or official course information.