Project-based learning in mechatronics

It is recognised that the teaching of Mechatronics brings many challenges not experienced in a single discipline degree course. A novel way of approaching the problem lies in adopting a project based approach integrating an number of technologies and providing significant scope for both individual and team work. The paper describes the basis of a mechatronics "kit of parts" to enable teams of students to build a mobile robot. The robots have two major competitive tasks in which the students fully engage. The teaching activity is based around activity packs which the students complete at their own pace.