A pedagogical game based on Lego bricks for collaborative design practices analysis

In this paper we present a pedagogical game intended to simulate the collaborative design activities of mechanical products as part of the formation programme for future engineers. This game is based on the adaptation of the Delta Design game developed at M.I.T. The principle of the game is to co-imagine a space shuttle built in Lego((R)) blocks with functions and rules assigned for several students. The software used (MLCad) provides for a shared and distributed use of the game. The core objective is to create a situation that brings the students together in a way that encourages them to experiment with different designs by making compromises, overcoming conflicts, and working within the constraints of the game. The underlying theory of this model is that by encouraging collaboration among each other when addressing the different obstacles and variables encountered, the students will have a better understanding of their own behaviour and the behaviour of other members. Thus, the students will intuitively contemplate the diverse and beneficial methods of collaboration required for practices between trades.