Mechanical engineering design gives a lot of scope for project-based learning and teamwork, says student in new programme

In September 2024, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering opened a new bachelor's study program in Mechanical engineering design. The teaching, led by educators from the Institute of Machine and Industrial Design, is inspired by experiences and trends from leading global universities. It focuses primarily on project-based learning and teamwork, which student Albert Pátík sees as the greatest benefit of his studies.

Albert, you are among the first students of the brand-new Mechanical engineering design program. Why did you choose to enroll in this field?

In high school, I was seriously considering which direction to take. I believe that the technical world has two major areas – the digital one and the physical one, which is tangible around us. When I decided I wanted to study the physical side as well, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering was the clear choice for me. However, I was torn between two fields – Physical Engineering and Mechanical engineering design. The two main reasons I chose Mechanical Engineering Design were that the program promised project-oriented education and a strong emphasis on teamwork. This teaching approach is different from what I had encountered in school before, and I find it very suitable for me.

How do you evaluate your studies after the first semester?

I am definitely satisfied. Teamwork and project-based learning are something I strongly believe in. Overall, the program has so far fulfilled the concept and goals as they were presented to us. I have participated in numerous projects and practical assignments in all subjects, and we regularly work in groups.

Where do you see the greatest potential of this type of study?

I see a huge difference in the fact that, as a student, I have the opportunity to practically apply what I hear in lectures. This helps me retain information much better. And, in my opinion, the biggest benefit is that I quickly recognize what I have understood and what I need to improve on. This makes exam preparation easier because instead of reviewing everything and wasting time on what I already know, I can simply recall what I struggled with. I quickly know what to focus on, making everything much more efficient.

Part of the study program also includes working in the university workshop strojLAB, which focuses on digital technologies. What did you spend the most time on in strojLAB during your first semester?

In the first year, we have a subject called Project – Machine Analysis, which, after completing the theoretical part, takes place mainly in strojLAB. We disassembled and reassembled an internal combustion engine, analyzed it, and then created a final report on the process. This was probably the most significant part of my studies in strojLAB during the first semester. Additionally, we had another project where we printed a construction kit, so we also got hands-on experience with a 3D printer. It is amazing how well-equipped FSI students are. Moreover, after completing the necessary training, I can access strojLAB anytime to work on my own projects and ideas. Its use is not limited to classes.

What was the ratio of theoretical to practical learning in the first semester?

It varies significantly from subject to subject. For example, in the Project – Machine Analysis course, the ratio is almost one-to-one, perhaps even leaning more towards practical work. In courses like Fundamentals of Design , it is also highly practice-oriented, though not necessarily during lectures but through substantial homework assignments that help students test their understanding. Of course, there are also subjects like Statics and Mathematics, which are more theoretical, with practical exercises involving problem-solving in class.

How challenging is this study program?

I think that if a student dedicates the necessary time, it is not difficult to manage.

What kind of student group formed in the first year?

There are 30 of us, and I must say I have many motivated classmates who are very interested in studying. I think this stems from the fact that applicants had to pass an interview and write a motivation letter, which discouraged those who just wanted to "give it a try." It is amazing to study in an environment full of inspiration.

Besides studying at BUT, you are also a student at Masaryk University, where you study computer science. Why did you decide to gain knowledge in both fields?

In general, I really enjoy learning about different things, and as I mentioned, I wanted to delve into both the physical and digital aspects of the technical world. My decision wasn’t so much about the two fields complementing each other or working well together, but rather about wanting to be knowledgeable in both.

Finally, what message would you give to secondary school students considering this field? Why should they choose this program?

I think this field is ideal for people who are interested in the technical world and want to be part of its development. I am thrilled with how much this program allows me to grow. If personal development is important to someone, I’d say this is the right choice for them. As mentioned before, the connection between practice and theory, as well as teamwork, are strong reasons to choose this program. Moreover, if someone prefers a more high school-like atmosphere over the typical university model, they will surely appreciate the more intimate environment. We can help each other a lot within our class, and it doesn’t matter whether someone came from a grammar school or a technical high school—I have always found help from my classmates when I needed it. If I understood Professor Hartl, the director of the Institute of Machine and Industrial Design, correctly, the goal of this program is not just to create technically skilled individuals but to educate students who can solve problems—especially in the field of design. I believe this approach is very beneficial for the future.

What do you like about FME in general?

I must say that the facilities at the faculty are truly excellent. I feel that whether I need to study, eat, or relax, the school has suitable spaces for every activity. It is very pleasant here. A major benefit, of course, is the availability of student workshops with extensive technical equipment. I think the opportunities at this faculty are excellent, even for students who choose a different field of study at FME.

Source: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering BUT (in Czech Language)