Wesley College's Engineering Studies course
A project involving the development of robot-like vehicles has helped make Engineering Studies one of the most popular courses at Wesley College this year.
The Engineering Studies course is one of three new Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) courses that were introduced into Year 11 this year.
Teacher David Howlett said his students had researched and designed a skid steer vehicle, which was based on the context of transportation.
A skid steer vehicle powered by a motor extracted from a cordless drill.
“The project was inspired by a member of the school’s maintenance team, who makes mini tanks as a hobby,” Mr Howlett said.
“It was a project that successfully maintained students’ interest all semester,” he said.
“The vehicles were powered by motors extracted from cordless drills, as the chuck from the drill can be used for both driving and steering.”
Student Ben Siviour (16) said the course was interesting because students were able to research control systems and how to transfer power.
“We set about to design something that can be used for community living – to aid the disabled, for example,” Ben said.
“It was challenging to build something from scratch,” he said.
“The project built on the knowledge that we learned in years eight, nine and 10 and I found the research process useful.
“I’ll definitely be continuing the course into Year 12.”
The Curriculum Council’s Engineering Studies curriculum officer, Andy Briggs, said the Wesley College skid steer project was a great application of the principles of mechanical engineering.
Mr Briggs said the project demonstrated how to effectively modify existing and easily-accessible technology and then incorporate both mechanical and metal working skills to develop an end product.
“When I visited the school I talked with students about the pros and cons of the structural components used in the project. I was able to talk to the group around the whiteboard, in a technical way, using technological conventions and language,” he said.
“This project has proven highly engaging for students and I compliment Engineering Studies pupils and staff at Wesley College for their motivation,” he said.”
