Engineering education traditionally relies on analytical methods and theoretical instruction, often lacking practical, hands-on learning experiences due to logistical and financial constraints. This study explores a novel approach that integrates Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations with experimental and analytical methods through structured case studies. By leveraging Ansys software, this initiative aims to bridge the gap between theory and application, enhancing students’ understanding of fundamental engineering principles. The study involved a series of multi-day workshops at the University of Waterloo, engaging approximately 500 students from diverse engineering disciplines. These workshops incorporated analytical problem-solving, hands-on experimentation, and simulation-based validation. Case studies in structural mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetics reinforced key engineering concepts across multiple disciplines. This study presents affective feedback from over 100 students across multiple disciplines who engaged in simulation-integrated workshops, evaluating their engagement, perceived relevance, and confidence in applying engineering concepts. Preliminary results indicate that integrating simulation-driven case studies enhances student comprehension and problem-solving skills. Workshop participants reported increased confidence in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, recognizing the importance of correlating analytical and experimental data with simulation outputs. Combining case studies with industry-standard software, students develop a more intuitive grasp of complex engineering systems, better preparing them for both academic and professional challenges. Future work will focus on expanding this methodology across additional engineering curricula, refining assessment techniques, and further embedding simulation-based learning into undergraduate education.
Andrew Gryguć (Thu,) studied this question.