2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

This paper presents an innovative educational approach used in a sophomore systems engineering course, where LEGO Mindstorms robots are integrated to accelerate the understanding of complex systems engineering concepts. While hands-on learning tools like LEGO Mindstorms are often used in engineering education, our approach uniquely emphasizes the unpredictability and complexity inherent in real-world systems engineering. Rather than focusing solely on technology or project completion, we incorporate controlled disruptions during exercises, such as modifying project requirements, changing team compositions, or removing key components from the kits. These disruptions simulate dynamic environments, requiring students to adapt, manage resource limitations, and navigate evolving constraints.
This method accelerates experiential learning by immersing students in scenarios that mimic the unpredictable nature of real-world systems engineering projects. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, allowing students to rapidly prototype, test, and observe the impacts of their design decisions in real time. As a result, students not only strengthen their theoretical knowledge but also develop critical skills in problem-solving, collaboration, and decision-making under pressure—essential traits for any successful systems engineer. Our findings suggest that this dynamic, challenge-driven approach significantly enhances students' readiness for professional practice, fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of complexity.
This presentation will explore the implementation of this approach, highlight student experiences, and assess its effectiveness in accelerating the learning of key systems engineering principles.