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.

 Two ladies working on a hands-on learning activity

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. 

 Two students working on a soldering activity

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.

 

Students working on a hands-on activity

Seminars

(Open to all Students and Staff)

With 50- 120 Minutes per instance, 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 certification for each equipment.

Seminar Schedule

All Seminars can be found on our Florida Tech Engage Page

  • Laser Cutter:
  • 3D Prinitng:
  • Soldering and Wiring:
  • Microcontroller with Arduino:
  • PCB Design and Circuit Design:
  • Plasma Cutting and Welding:
  • Hotwire CNC:
  • Sandblasting and Powder Coating:
  • Waterjet Cutting:
  • Benchtop Manual Mill:
  • Benchtop Manual Lathe
  • Vacuum Forming:
  • Introduction to CNC Machining:
  • Essential CAD Design:
  • 2D Design and Embroidering: