This work used three methods (analytical, simulated, and video-tracking) to analyze the kinematics of a four-bar mechanism. The results obtained were shared and implemented in an engineering dynamics course at the university level to assess the impact of this exercise on motivation and understanding of the course topic. A survey was used to evaluate the exercise. The survey results showed that for the students, the implementation of different methods to tackle the same problem improved their understanding of the concepts and gave them other options for analyzing a mechanical system.
MaginDKanapathipillaiS. Engineering students’ understanding of the role of experimentation. Eur J Eng Educ2000; 25: 351–358.
2.
Abdel-SalamTKauffmanPCrossmanG. Does the lack of hands-on experience in a remotely delivered laboratory course affect student learning?Eur J Eng Educ2006; 31: 747–756.
3.
CollerB. An experiment in hands-on learning in engineering mechanics: Statics. Int J Eng Educ2008; 24: 545–557.
4.
GalanteLGnesiI. Two-penny physics - teaching 2D linear momentum conservation. Am J Phys2020; 88: 279.
5.
MomoxEOrtega de MaioC. Computer-based learning in an undergraduate physics course: Interfacing a mobile phone and Matlab to study oscillatory motion. Am J Phys2020; 88: 535.
6.
CarlsonLSullivanJ. Hands-on engineering: Learning by doing in the integrated teaching and learning program. Int J Eng Educ1998; 15: 20–31.
7.
NatesanA. Kinematic analysis and synthesis of four-bar mechanisms for straight line coupler curves. Thesis, Rochester Institute of Technology, 1994.
