Engaging Undergraduate Engineering Students in a Research and Design Experience

In today’s constantly evolving knowledge-driven world, conducting research in all fields of study is crucial. To apply the above successfully in undergraduate engineering education, students should understand the importance of research for knowledge and design as a combined strategic skill. This practice paper emphasizes the significance of integrating the above skills in teaching power systems engineering. The fourth-year engineering students at the University of Ottawa, Canada worked collaboratively in teams under the guidance of their instructor to acquire essential research and design skills, including literature review, analysis, design, simulation, and presentation. An evaluation of the course and student progress revealed notable psychological and knowledge gains after completing the course. The students’ survey and feedback demonstrated marked improvements in their skills and competencies. The paper highlights the importance of the early development of research skills as a strategic competence in undergraduate engineering education to promote the togetherness of design thinking and to prepare students for graduate studies and professional careers.