UPSI Digital Repository (UDRep)
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Abstract : Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris |
The purpose of this case study was to evaluate the Project-Based Learning that was implemented at the Mechanical Engineering Department in a polytechnic in Malaysia. Project-Based Learning is a different approach than the traditional learning in the sense that it is a student-centered learning approach based on the principles of constructivism. This study employed CIPP model because it is a comprehensive model for evaluation. However, the context dimension was dropped because the present study did not focus on the needs analysis. The input dimension assesses the module and supervisor?s readiness. The process dimension evaluates the project activities and the product dimension assesses the quality of the product. This study involved a random sample of 118 students and 43 supervisors in the Mechanical Engineering Department. The study found that both the students and supervisors agreed that Project-Based Learning approach is appropriate for the final project course J5012. In addition, both groups of respondents believed that the supervisors possesed adequate technical knowledge and implemented supervisory duties effectively. Nevertheless, students perceived the module content was hard to understand. In terms of finding ideas, both students and supervisors agreed that students were encouraged to assess the real problem by their supervisors. However, the supervisors were uncertain whether the students went to the library to get the ideas for their project. In addition, the supervisors were barely agreed about the creativity of the students in finding the project ideas. However, students and their supervisors believed that critical thinking and creativity were needed in the Project-Based Learning. The respondents also believed that e-SOLMS helped the students to work in group to complete the project. In terms of project duration, the students were uncertain regarding the sufficiency of the time to complete the project. The students barely agreed that the machines and equipments at the polytechnic were appropriate for the project. In terms of product, both students and supervisors believed that the students? products were marketable because they have good design and aesthetic values. Finally, the present study puts forward a new framework for Project-Based Learning. |
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