Course development in interdisciplinary controls and mechatronics

As the future of engineering education emphasizes more interdisciplinary work, one logical starting point for this evolution is for faculty from different academic departments to work together. Engineering educators cannot ignore the real worldpsilas shifting focus to interdisciplinary engineering, and they should adapt as well. Similar to the total engineering process as a team effort, the engineering education process also benefits from excellent communications among a diversity of team members. This paper highlights a classical dynamical modeling and controls course with students from two different disciplines: electrical engineering and mechanical engineering. Faculties from both departments teach every semester. Sections are assigned to individual instructors but all activities are planned jointly. Course administration is the role of a course director and this role alternates between the two departments each semester. Responsibilities throughout the semester are shared between the instructors. This organizational structure is important, allowing the interdisciplinary faculty team to synchronize their efforts, each contributing their individual strengths and resources to promote student learning and faculty development. The approach is being applied to the development of a new course, Mechatronics. This paper provides details that illustrate the structure and benefits of this interdisciplinary administrative model.