Teaching and Learning Experiences of an Integrated Mechanism and Machine Design Course

The objective of this paper is to discuss some of the issues concerning the teaching and learning experiences of an integrated mechanical assemblies and mechanical engineering design course taught at Kettering University. The integration into one discipline of subjects, which are otherwise commonly taught as separate courses, is also discussed. A course entitled "Analysis and Design of Machines and Mechanical Assemblies" is used as an example. Course objectives and learning outcomes are included along with an example course outline. While the two-course integration into a single one can pose some challenging issues with respect to the pre-requisites needed by the students, it provides a great opportunity to bring out new teaching materials conducive to active learning. The course is designed in such a way that the students are required to complete regular homework, class work and carry out simulation exercises using CAE tools. An example student project will be presented and the learning outcomes discussed.