Breaking the boundaries in engineering education by incorporating interdisciplinary and inter-gender interaction in final year projects

To contribute towards the interdisciplinary nature of the project, mechanical, electronic, and robotic and mechatronics students undertaking degree qualifications are involved in the technical development of the car. Within this cohort are both male and female students engaged in engineering analysis, design and construction tasks. Whereas the engineering students have certain skills in design and analysis, the technical skills are complemented by team members with “tradesman’ type skills’. This is seen as a necessary requirement for successful implementation of the project. As some engineering students are often lacking in relevant managerial and financial skills associated with project management the integration of a management-business skills team member will enhance the running of the project. The integration of a non-technical manager(who is both a business student and of a non traditional engineering gender, ie female) is highlighted by the skills in negotiating with various sections of the Formula SAE team whilst retaining an intimate involvement with the project management and financial development. The ability to work in teams, achieving set outcomes and developing a sound approach to a sophisticated engineering achievement is evaluated with a survey instrument delivered before the commencement, during the project and at the conclusion of the project. The results of the survey are analysed and discussed in terms of the total project outcomes.