Enhancing the first year learning experience for Biosystems Engineering students at University College Dublin

This paper outlines the development of a problem-based learning module called the Biosystems
Engineering Design Challenge. The focus of the module is on designing and building a working,
bench-scale device that solves a practical problem relevant to Biosystems Engineering. It
provides an early opportunity for students to learn about engineering design, project management
and teamwork. The module aligns well with the academic policy of University College Dublin to
introduce alternative teaching and learning strategies compared to the conventional lecture.
While the original aim of the module was to enhance the learning experience specifically for
Biosystems Engineering students, it was considered beneficial to adopt a multi-disciplinary
approach by allowing students from a wide variety of programs to participate. Students are split
into teams and meet an assigned mentor each week during a 12-week semester to solve a
specified problem with several design constraints. The projects thus far have focused on flood
barrier construction, water-driven electricity generation, treatment of gray water from domestic
buildings, and biofiltration of malodors from food waste.
The student groups are formed in the first week when they meet their mentors and learn about
the technical design constraints of the project and tips for good teamwork and time management.
The second week provides a focus for literature research followed by brainstorming and
evaluation of the key design solutions. A self-assessment is made of the teamwork in the sixth
week and more guidance is provided on the requirements for the compilation of reports and
posters. Weeks eight to ten focus on device assembly while technical performance is evaluated in
the penultimate session. A panel of external technical experts visit the University in the final
week to meet the students, mentors and faculty and to view a display of the devices and
accompanying posters in the main Engineering building. The assessment criteria include
teamwork, minimization of expenditure, device design, innovation, operational safety, system
performance, project journal submission, report writing, poster presentation and appropriate use
of biological and recycled materials. Prizes are awarded to the top teams. Students receive
individual academic grades based on their contribution following a review by mentors and
faculty at the end of the semester. Mentor assessment of students concentrates on meeting
attendance, task completion and participation in the team.
Student feedback has been very positive. They like a “hands-on” approach to learning while
solving problems within a team environment. Awards for the recognition of teaching excellence
have been received from UCD College of Life Sciences and from the American Society for
Engineering Education.