Innovative Lab-Centered Learning Approach for Enhancing Mechatronic Systems Education

This paper presents an innovative, lab-based learning approach implemented in the Mechatronic Systems course, effectively bridging the gap between academia and industry.The course is structured around seven carefully designed labs and a final project and competition, aimed at providing students with a comprehensive understanding of mechatronic systems and their realworld applications.The labs cover a wide range of topics, including circuit design and analysis, adjustable resistors, transistor-based circuits, sensor integration, motor drivers, control systems, microcontroller and microcomputer programming, and the construction of light-following, linefollowing, and obstacle-avoiding robots.These labs enable students to practice with the main components of mechatronic systems such as sensors, actuators, controllers, signal conditioning and interfacing, mechanical structures, and user interface.Each lab imparts technical skills and prepares students for the final project and competition.The final project challenges students to design and build an integrated line-following/obstacle-avoiding robotic system by applying the knowledge and technical skills acquired throughout the course.This project-based approach encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and the practical application of theoretical knowledge.Additionally, a final competition evaluates the students' robots based on their design, functionality, performance, and speed.This competition drives innovation, teamwork, and friendly rivalry, which motivates students to excel and expand their creativity and technical skills.The outcomes of the lab activities and final project have already been used in our Mechatronics Engineering Technology program's outcome assessments and contributed significantly to our recent ABET accreditation evaluation.Moving forward, the newly collected survey data will be used to further refine the program, ensuring it continues to meet industry standards, comply with accreditation requirements, and continuously enhance the educational experience for students.