© 2008 Festo Corporation 89 U
Getting Started with Festo MecLab
Projects
Deciphering and Understanding the Problem (preparatory phase)
This preparatory or informational phase deals with problem definition. In other words stu-
dents consider the project goals and establish the steps or tasks. The project goal must be
defined. If it is the students' first project lesson, the teacher must inform them of the purpose
of project work and how it is carried out. The preparatory phase should be kept as short as
possible so as not to deflate the students' motivation.
Identifying Possible Solutions (evaluation phase)
In the evaluation phase, the students must identify solutions to reach the goal and compare
them against each other. The solutions must also be compared with the material conditions
and the students' capabilities. The chosen solution should represent a compromise between
what is technically intended, economically prudent and what the material conditions and hu-
man resources can support.
Planning a Solution (planning phase)
The students' task in the planning phase is to plan and organize the steps required to reach
the goal. This includes material planning (tools and materials) and human resources consid-
erations (number of groups, size and composition of the groups). Secondary goals and sub-
groups are formed.
Project Milestones (interaction phase)
During the interaction phase, the students work on solving the project secondary goals in
their respective subgroups. The teacher's main role in this phase is to ensure that all neces-
sary information is available. All results should be documented by each group and prepared
for the presentation.
To Next Page
Loading...
