A variety of subjects are taught in this one-year course, and each subject is taught for only about two weeks. With the purpose of building a design tool box, the lectures really emphasize breadth rather than depth, applications rather than deep theories. It is expected that after the lectures, students have basic understanding of the subject, and are able to study further the subject on their own when they need to use the design tool, or to take an advanced course on the subject if they find themselves interested in it. Currently 12 subjects are arranged in our course model These subjects were selected because we think they are the fundamental tools the students must have in order to be able to do mechanical design. There can be no standard textbook.
Substantial handouts are prepared.
The subjects and the content of the subjects are reviewed and updated each summer to reflect the latest changes in technologies and local industries. Many engineering graduates agree that gaining hands-on experience in conceiving and executing a project in a team environment is the most valuable training a future engineer can have. The project can help students to put tools and teamwork in perspective within the product-realization process. Consequently, they need good communication and research skills to gain an understanding of a future employer's corporate strategy and competitive environment. The students also must be able to devise strategies for implementing a variety of tools and work processes to achieve these goals.