Student-led Multi-Disciplinary Approach for the Design of Experiments in Engineering: A Methodology

This paper introduces a methodology for teaching the Design of Experiments (DoE) Mechanical Engineering course. The concept centers on three principles: a multidisciplinary approach, student empowerment, and real-life engineering challenges. The DoE course curriculum centers around two phases, Project 1, and Project 2, with critical problem-solving as the core focus. Project-based learning involves teams selecting real-life challenges and adopting a connection between students' missions and global issues. It progresses through establishing project needs, cultivating ownership through role-playing, and developing technical knowledge. Work Plan Development encompasses drafting experimental plans, data collection strategies, and weekly progress meetings. Project 2 builds on Project 1, expanding to a three-factor, three-level experiment. It challenges students with advanced analysis tools, promoting personal ownership and leadership in structured problem-solving. The methodology extends beyond the classroom, impacting students in diverse learning environments and enhancing knowledge beyond technical domains through ownership and personalization of problems. Student projects in the academic years 2022-2023 showcase engagement, critical thinking, and tangible results that extend beyond the classroom, leading to the engagement of 30% of class students in undergraduate research on their MEEN 404 topics after completion of the course work. Specific learning outcomes demonstrate how the Paradigm fosters skills in structured problem-solving, work plan development, time management, storytelling, public speaking, knowledge translation, adaptability, teamwork effectiveness, and self-leadership. The ABET scores showed an improvement, with an average increase of approximately 10-15% across various student learning outcomes over the evaluated years, highlighting the effectiveness of the implemented teaching paradigm in elevating student achievement in engineering education. The assessment methodology supports the success of the methodology, empowering students to tackle real-world engineering challenges and excel academically.