Design and implementation of a Hovercraft Problem Based Learning exercise to teach first year fluids. International Conference on Engineering Education, Manchester 2002

The Manchester School of Engineering now uses Problem Based Learning (PBL) to deliver core engineering science learning in the first year of its undergraduate programme. This paper describes the design and implementation philosophy for PBL units, using a PBL based on the design and make of a hovercraft as an example. PBL documentation is presented in terms of a student pack and a facilitator pack. The hovercraft PBL was run for the first time in January 2002. Overall, the PBL was successful in delivering the majority of the intended learning outcomes. However the group based programming exercise and expert forums were less successful. Furthermore, there is opportunity to beneficially increase the level of challenge posed by the Hovercraft and other first year PBL units.