IDE Course Descriptions

An introduction to engineering through a series of interdisciplinary team projects.

  • Learn in a hands-on wayÌý
  • Enhance communication skills
  • Learn how to work with a team to go further than you can alone
  • Work with a variety of computer tools as appropriate to your projects:
    • programming microcontrollers
    • dynamic modeling software
    • computer-aided design (CAD)
  • For more details about the course including requisites, please see the

Learn how to answer engineering questions by utilizing mathematical techniques.Ìý

Through hands-on labs, you will explore common engineering tools that are utilized across all engineering majors and disciplines to develop solutions to real engineering problems.Ìý

"The class itself has actually been the most beneficial to me as an engineer. Delving into these complicated topics, I just feel more prepared than the average freshman for the future of our engineering careers." - Tomas, Reflection 7

What can students expect in this class?Ìý

Students will delve into engineering problems in a team-based, hands-on environment. The labs introduce students to circuits, multimeters, oscilloscopes, and a variety of sensors. Students will learn to program in MATLAB, and collect and analyze experimental data using MS Excel (no previous programming experience necessary). Throughout the experience, they will work collaboratively with other engineering students. There is one lecture, one mixed lecture/hands on problem session and one lab period each week. Students will absorb content and gain understanding by working through real engineering problems by using real engineering equipment and tools.

Is this course required?

This course is highly recommended for all incoming first-year students taking Pre-Calculus or Calc 1A. It is also a great course for all engineering students interested in learning about a breadth of engineering topics, such as Open Option students. Students can take this course in the Fall (given sufficient demand also in the Spring).

Questions?

Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact your academic advisor or the Engineering Analysis and Problem Solving course instructor, Mr. Daniel Godrick.

For more details about the course including requisites, please see the

Design engineering products for local community clients with an emphasis on humanitarian engineering.

Teams will focus on integrated systems with electrical, mechanical, and software components.Ìý

  • Follow the iterative design cycle
  • Experience more engaged user-testingÌý
  • Work with local community clients and users.

For more details about the course including requisites, please see the .

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Focus on the business aspects of engineering design.

Use team projects to learn key aspects of product development like:ÌýÌý

  • industry research
  • intellectual property
  • financial planning
  • business ethics

For more details about the course including requisites, please see the .

Learn how to teach engineering design to diverse audiences.

Through engaging discussions and hands-on projects, you will explore the foundations of teaching design thinking, from understanding team dynamics and communication to fostering belonging and tackling complex problems.

"This class has been transformational for me as an engineer and a leader. Learning how to teach and communicate design thinking has given me a whole new perspective on teamwork and creativity." - Jordan, Reflection 6

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Course Highlights:

  • ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ18 High-Level Concepts
    Dive into the psychology, learning processes, and information processing behind engineering design.
  • Develop Your Unique Style
    Reflect on your role as a student, teacher, and leader in the engineering space.
  • Interactive and Engaging
    Enjoy a mix of thoughtful discussions and student-led activities that reinforce key concepts.
  • Practical Tools for the Real World
    Create ready-to-use design tools for local schools and companies while exploring cutting-edge design education literature.

What can students expect in this class?
Students will explore teaching engineering design through a mix of theory, discussion, and practical application. They will examine key concepts such as design processes, iteration, and audience comfort with ambiguity and failure. The course includes interactive activities where students work collaboratively to develop tools, projects, or lessons that integrate design thinking into educational or industry settings.

The class includes engaging discussions, team-based activities, and hands-on opportunities to apply design thinking frameworks. Students will leave with a deeper understanding of how to teach and communicate design effectively, as well as practical tools to implement in real-world educational or industry environments.

Note:ÌýThis course includes both GEEN 4400 and ENED 5400. ÌýENED (Engineering Education) 5400 studentsÌýwill engage in additional research for their client and develop a quantitative and qualitative question to answer around teaching engineering within that settingÌý