The Implementation of a Problem Formulation Project with a Sustainability Focus

Abstract

The problem formulation stage of engineering design is an important aspect, however little time is spent teaching our students how to do this or providing time to practice. Students need to practice expert-like skills and behaviours involved in researching and understanding ill-defined problems, as opposed to textbook problems with clear solution paths. This paper describes the implementation of a project that focuses on the tasks of researching and understanding a problem in sustainability using known campus sustainability problems from the University’s sustainability office. Three current opportunities were selected as problem domains based on their open-ended nature and ease of understanding at a basic level. To evaluate the activity, a survey was given to students before taking part in the activity, and again at the completion to assess whether there were any changes after completing the project. The instructor guided approach allowed the students to practice the problem formulation stage of the engineering design process in a supportive environment. The use of open-ended ill-defined relevant campus sustainability problems provided an opportunity to interview stakeholders. It was found that the structure of the project was successful in meeting the intended activity outcomes.