Development of a series of design build projects - Preparing students for industrial placement

Many modern engineering degree programmes make use of active learning often built around a variety of problem and project based learning activities. Structuring these to ensure a progression of both technical and professional competencies is key, with the emphasis often being focussed around the scientific and technical competencies to the detriment of the generic skills needed in industry. This paper describes the creation and evolution of a series of major group projects over the first two years of Bachelors level degrees in Mechanical Engineering & Product Design aimed at developing students to a point where they are both confident enough and competent enough to undertake a year in industry at the end of their second year. Mapping both the technical and personal qualities of a successful placement student and the typical entry competencies of our students, a series of requirements were developed and these structured into a coherent programme of project modules spanning two years.