Teaching manufacturing systems simulation in a computer aided teaching studio

A computer aided teaching studio provides a unique environment for teaching an introductory simulation course to manufacturing engineers. Each meeting can consist of an appropriate combination of lecture and computer-based activities, depending on the topic. Assigned exercises aid students in learning methods. Emphasis can be placed on the solution of case problems that serve as metaphors for realistic simulation projects. Since students have co-op or full time industrial experience, an industry-based project of the student's own definition serves as a course capstone. The case problem and project orientation of the course supported by the computer aided teaching studio makes examinations unnecessary. Case problems are based on a set of case studies derived from topics of interest to practicing manufacturing engineers. Cases are organized into four modules: basic systems organizations, lean manufacturing, material handling, and supply chain management. Only the simulation methods needed to support the case studies are presented.