Revamping engineering education: a case study of the evolution of an introduction to engineering module

Undergraduate students in the School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Queen’s University Belfast (SMAE) undertake a compulsory Introduction to Engineering module, originally introduced into stage 1 in the 2006-2007 academic year as part of the restructuring of the curriculum in line with the CDIO (Conceive, Design, Implement, Operate) syllabus and standards (CDIO Standards 2.0). The module was designed to enthuse students about engineering and interweave practical and theoretical elements, along with developing transferable skills within an integrated curriculum. It is a key module in enabling success throughout the degree programme, developing skills in knowledge application, problem solving, and team working and acting as a cornerstone module to complement and support the capstone modules in final year. This paper presents a case study of the history of the module and explores the impact of this hands-on, practical approach to learning. A recent revamp of the module will be discussed, describing the teaching and assessment practices used, and analysing the influence on students' engagement, outcomes, and overall educational experience.