Title: Interdisciplinary Mechatronics engineering and science: problem-solving, creative-thinking and concurrent design synergy

Authors: Maki K. Habib

Addresses: Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Saga University, Japan

Abstract: Mechatronics engineering science describes the interdisciplinary synergy of education, knowledge, thinking, way of work, practices, and professional skills. It is supported by strong engineering science foundation beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries and featured by open-ending learning chains with ability to fuse new knowledge and experiences through lifelong learning. Mechatronics focuses on the process of learning coupled with thinking and linked with actions rather than teaching, and fused with concurrent design synergy from the earliest conceptual stages of the design and development process. Efficient structure of a Mechatronics Engineering Degree programme should provide in-depth interdisciplinary knowledge and emphasise on individual- and team-based learning through problem- and project-based curriculum to fulfil the challenges of modern technology and the demand for innovation.

Keywords: interdisciplinary mechatronics; curriculum; innovation; problem solving; concurrent design; simultaneous design; individual learning; team-based learning; creative thinking; design process; mechatronics education.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMS.2008.018272

International Journal of Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems, 2008 Vol.1 No.1, pp.4 - 22

Published online: 14 May 2008 *

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