The best aspects of this course included the hands-on experience, the consistent interaction with one’s client as the project progressed, the discussion and analysis that went into solving actual design problems, and the guidance provided by the instructors. Some students felt they were not given proper feedback on their projects and reports. A few students felt that the assessments, deadlines, presentations, and reports should have been better organized and communicated to students. Suggestions included al owing students more machine shop access and training prior to their projects; also, providing students with more individual communication and feedback throughout the semester. Prospective students should keep up with al the milestones of the course and try not to procrastinate.

This class is highlighted by the chance to design, build, test, and present a real product. The entire project puts everything learned over the four years of college into practice in a real world scenario. The worst aspects of the class were the time commitment required of students, the instructor seems unable to dedicate enough time to each team and often gave unrealistic advice. Suggestions for improving the course include increasing the number of people in each team, making the class 6 credits rather than 4, and having more advisors available for students. Prospective students should make sure they put together a strong group and be ready for the time commitment. This is a great way to cap off the MechE undergraduate career and get a taste of real life.

The best aspects of the course included the application of skil s, real project design experience, and col aborative environment. Students felt that the time commitment was significant with an overwhelming workload, and that feedback was vague and inconsistent. Some students also felt that the instructor was condescending and that advice was inconsistent. Suggestions for improvement included adding an additional instructor, having earlier machine shop training, giving clearer more reasonable expectations for project progress, and increasing the credit hours assigned for the course. Prospective students are encouraged to plan well, pick teammates carefully, and start building early. Students should be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time to projects.