CAPSTONE PROJECTS WITH LIMITED BUDGET AS AN EFFECTIVE METHOD FOR EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING

Abstract

This paper describes a method that is used inSchool of Engineering Technology Department atMcMaster University to promote experiential learning atundergraduate level through capstone projects.The goal of this paper is to demonstrate that capstoneprojects with limited budget can be effectively used toimplement experiential learning methodology toengineering students.According to this methodology, students work ingroups of three over two academic terms, to completecapstone projects that require designing, building,testing, and prototyping a final product. The methodologyis addressed from the perspective of experiential learningtheory, and several project cost-reducing strategies arepresented.Selected results from student capstone projects atMcMaster University are presented and discussed.Results indicate that capstone projects can besuccessfully implemented into experiential learningmethodology when adequate strategies for reducing theproject costs are considered.