Web-Based Modules for Product and Process Design

Integrative, complex, design-oriented learning outcomes involve multidisciplinary knowledge and procedures, engineering knowhow related to practice and experience, and professional or "soft" skills. Achieving these outcomes in a web-based environment is a significant challenge (Brault et al, 2007). The paper describes an ongoing project geared toward the development of web-based modules on Product and ProcessDesign as part of a North American Mobility Program (NAMP) involving 6 universities in Canada, the US, and Mexico. The mechanism for developing the modules involves exchanging students and faculty between the 6 universities, and creating cooperative and collaborative environments. A total of 42 student exchanges will be made to develop innovative web-based educational materials ("modules") using a unique vision for Product and Process Design, and using the biorefinery for the design case study context. The objective for some of the initial exchanges was to identify and apply state-of-the-art pedagogical and web-based techniques, in order to produce user-friendly and effective distance-learning modules which incorporate open-ended design problems. Another more ambitious objective of this project will be to set the foundation for establishing a distance-learning graduate program in Product and Process Design which is international, multilingual, and multi-institutional in character.