Automobile Parts Provide the Framework for Teaching Around the Cycle in a Course on Manufacturing Materials and Processes

A course on manufacturing materials and processes was improved by dividing it into units identified by automotive components such as the piston, body panel, and tail light. To teach around the cycle within each module, the “WHY”, “WHAT”, “HOW”, and “WHAT IF” teaching objectives are addressed and a variety of learning activities are utilized; e.g.. lecturing with visual aids, computer-aided instruction, guided laboratory tests, company visits, problem solving, design sessions, and team projects. Presented and discussed are the contents of the course introduction, nine automotive units, and two capstone experiences. Based upon student evaluations of the course, covering topics in a framework of automobile parts was appreciated. However, the most preferred learning activity was guided laboratory tests. Proposed future work includes the development of additional process laboratories and a CD on material-process-structure-properties interrelationships.