Appropriation and Use of a Modelling and Simulation Tool in Mechanical Design Learning

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study on the integration of modelling and simulation tools in mechanical design. Indeed, optimisation of the design process often uses modelling and simulation tools in mechanical design activities. Thus, to meet the needs of the labour market, training situations in this field use communication and information techniques. In particular, digital tools are used for the development of virtual models intended for sizing and optimisation, and/or validating the behaviour and performance of a system, component or process. However, their use in the teaching–learning activities of mechanical design gives rise to many problems. These problems are often related to the educational use of these tools, the ergonomics of their interfaces, and their appropriation by students. This research presents the main results of a quantitative study on the learning of mechanical design. A survey using a questionnaire was conducted among 67 first-year tertiary students enrolled in the University Diploma of Technology programme in Science and Industrial Techniques in Morocco. The results of the study identified a number of factors that promote the efficiency of student mechanical design learning using modelling and simulation tools.

Keywords:

• Effectiveness of learning
• modelling tools
• mechanical design

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).