First Year Student Design Projects In Engineering Graphics

First-year students at the School of Engineering Technology and the Lowell Institute School at Northeastern University are directly involved in multifaceted projects that have practical applications. This paper will discuss how the presentations are prepared, the expected level of competency, and integration of projects into an introductory design course. Design projects are carefully selected to follow the industrial format and introduce students to architectural, mechanical, and electrical and electronic design. Through the implementation of design projects into the curriculum, students gain fundamental engineering skills, an exposure to on-the-job industrial methodology, an understanding of interdisciplinary work, improved communication skills, and invaluable knowledge that will aid them in making informed decisions about their