The Engineering Process
An engineering process is an array of steps that engineers usually follow to resolve problems. It is highly iterative and certain aspects of the process could be repeated multiple times in one project. The specific framing and articulation of the steps repeated will differ.
The first step is research. This includes identifying needs, finding information and analyzing constraints. It is a critical part of the engineering design process, because it helps engineers determine the best solution to an issue.
Once researchers have enough data, they can begin to brainstorm ideas to solve the issue. This can be done in a number of ways, and is the place where the engineering imagination really blossoms. This is where possible solutions are evaluated and then analyzed. This could involve simulation studies, creating decision matrixes and even constructing prototypes to compare.
In this step, students choose one of their most creative ideas and devise a plan to create it. They build the prototype using the required materials and test it against their performance standards. Students may have to test their prototype, and possibly revise it to ensure that it functions as intended.
This is a good way to introduce the importance of problem solving and iteration. Engineers are known to develop an idea to a problem, test the solution and later, they discover a new problem. The process continues until the engineer finds the solution that is in line with their expectations.
