Simulating the Engineering Project Environment Using Cooperative Learning: A Second-Year Course Case Study

Abstract

This paper discusses a case study in problem-based cooperative learning (CL) implemented as a group project in a second-year course at the University of Pretoria's Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering Department. The group project is designed using the guidelines of CL to integrate the course content in one project, to simulate the real-world engineering environment, and to promote teamwork skills. The design of the project is discussed with detail on the problem definition and selection, scheduling, assignments, group selection and member responsibilities. The practical implementation of the project is discussed with tips on how to achieve this effectively. Results of the project are presented in the form of student marks and distributions, and student feedback. The project was successful in that the aims were achieved. The concepts will be implemented in other engineering courses at the University of Pretoria.