A New Methodology to Teach Electrical Engineering Using Product Development Projects

Nowadays, it is necessary to change the way engineering is being taught to increase not only students interest in the classroom, but also the enrolment of new students in engineering courses. This paper describes how a new methodology to teach engineering using product development projects is been adapted, from previous positive results in two laboratories, to be used in the classroom. An example of this methodology describing the design of a Robotic Musical Instrument is given. It is expected that, by using this methodology, a more interactive and motivational environment can be created, where students could not only acquire knowledge, competences and skills, but would also experience an integrated and coherent view of the engineering process.