College of Engineering and Science

Hands On Seminars

What is Hands On Learning

Hands-on Learning is the process of learning by doing. This approach is a more project-based approach than theoretical.  Hands-on education has proven to be an effective supplement to theoretical engineering education. The implementation of hands-on training curricula has led to positive results such as higher student retention rates, increased quality in their design output, and better student engagement.

Benefits of Hands-on Learning

There are many benefits of Hands on Education. The three that we would like to focus on for the Florida Tech Hans on Learning Course are described below:

Increased Learning Retention - When looking at lecture material retention rates of other presentation styles versus hands-on methods, research shows that learners retain only 5% of material presented through lecture and 30% of which is taught by demonstration. Hands-on participation, on the other hand, can lead to as much as a 75% retention rate.

Improved Problem Solving – Hands-on training can expose students to challenges and obstacles similar to those encountered in the real world. Providing a safe training environment for the development of their problem-solving skills and preparing them for a modern-day workforce. 

Current Hands-on Learning Curriculum

Currently, the COES provides a number of Hands-On Seminars to prepare the students for their design experiences; some of these include Subtractive and Additive manufacturing, Electronic manufacturing techniques, Composites, welding, and a variety of CNC Machines. Florida Techs Hands-on on Curriculum trains students in the different available resources on campus, while at the same time introducing innovative design techniques.

Seminar Levels

Seminars Level 1 (Open to all Students)

With 60- 120 Minutes per instance, level 1 Classes have a project-based learning approach and include the review of a Job Breakdown Sheet for each equipment. Each class includes an evaluation of core competencies at the end of the session. Classes are offered multiple times a semester and the successful completion of the evaluation will authorize the student to use the equipment with supervision.  

Completion of all Modules will grant the student a MAKER LEVEL 1 certification

Please Register with a Florida Tech Email to be included into the Canvas Section.

Topics Include:

Level 2 (Upperclassmen or Exception Only)

With up to 300 Minutes per instance, Level 2 Classes  have a project based learning approach and include the review of a Job Breakdown Sheet for each equipment. Level 2 classes will also include a detail look of design techniques for a target equipment, and related technologies. Each class includes a project based evaluation of core competencies at the end of the session. Classes are offered twice a semester and successful completion of the evaluation will authorize the student to use the full capabilities of the equipment. 

Completion of all Modules will grant the student a MAKER LEVEL 2 certification

Topics Include:

Level 3 (Upperclassmen or Exception Only)

with up to 600 Minutes per instance, level 3 classes  have an in-depth study of design techniques and examples of advanced equipment capabilities. Level 3 classes will also include a review of related and similar techniques available in the industry. Each class includes a project based evaluation of core competencies at the end of the session. Classes are offered once a semester during fall. Successful completion of the evaluation will authorize the student to use the full capabilities of the equipment during standard operating hours.  

Completion of all Modules will grant the student a MAKER LEVEL 3 certification

Topics Include:

SEMINAR SCHEDULE