Constructionist Learning Tool for Acquiring Skills in Understanding Standardised Engineering Drawings of Mechanical Assemblies in Mobile Devices

Fernando J. Fraile-Fernández, Rebeca Martínez-García and Manuel Castejón-Limas
Additional contact information
Fernando J. Fraile-Fernández: Department of Mining Technology, Topography and Structures, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
Rebeca Martínez-García: Department of Mining Technology, Topography and Structures, University of León, 24071 León, Spain
Manuel Castejón-Limas: Department of Mechanical, Informatics and Aerospace Engineering, University of León, 24071 León, Spain

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 6, 1-31

Abstract: The purpose of Graphic Design is to transfer information about design into reality and concerns the analysis, design and representation of mechanical components and assemblies. For the correct rendering of mechanical components, this discipline requires a command of, and the ability to, manage techniques and systems for graphical representation and standardisation; 3D models in a virtual environment enable engineering students to develop graphical skills and spatial awareness. The objective of the present study is the development of an application for smart devices (mobile phones and tablets), based on the constructionist theory of learning, which will enable first year engineering degree students to acquire the technical drawing knowledge and skills necessary to render mechanical assemblies. The mobile application tested and designed in this work is called ARPAID. It is a learning tool aimed at teaching students about the representation of mechanical assemblies as part of an engineering Graphic Design course. Teaching material and a process for evaluation have been designed. A detailed description is given of a classroom activity accompanied by a tabulation and analysis of the results obtained. This mobile application, when used in a Graphic Design course, promotes a more rapid understanding of spatial relationships and problems, fosters students’ learning and motivation, and develops higher order skills. Results from before and after the use of the application will be presented and do indeed show significant improvements in student performance.

Keywords: constructionism; virtual learning environment; computer aided drawing; technical engineering drawing; mechanical assemblies; unity3d; mobile application; technology-enhanced learning (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations:

Downloads: (external link)
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/6/3305/pdf (application/pdf)
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/13/6/3305/ (text/html)

Related works:
This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: Search for items with the same title.

Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text

Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:6:p:3305-:d:518849

Access Statistics for this article

Sustainability is currently edited by Ms. Alexandra Wu

More articles in Sustainability from MDPI
Bibliographic data for series maintained by MDPI Indexing Manager ().