Model rocket workshop : a Problem-Based Learning experience for engineering students

• Published in: International journal of emerging technologies in learning 2008-12
• Main Authors: Rojas Gregorio, José Ignacio, Prats Menéndez, Xavier, Villardi de Montlaur, Adeline de, García-Berro Montilla, Enrique
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aeronàutica i espai; Aprenentatge; Aprenentatge basat en problemes; Aprenentatge basat en problemes i projectes; Ensenyament i aprenentatge; Ensenyament universitari; Metodologies docents; Model Rocket Workshop; Problem solving; Problem-based learning; Rocketry; Transversal skills; Àrees temàtiques de la UPC
• ISSN: 1863-0383; 1863-0383
• DOI: 10.3991/ijet.v3i4.290

A Problem-Based Learning (PBL) experience for undergraduate students of aerospace engineering is described in this paper. The experience allows the students to build a model rocket using materials which can be easily obtained. They also compute all the relevant quantities to design and characterize the rocket and they test the robustness of their design. They furthermore launch the rocket with the corresponding payload and verify the flight parameters using an on-board altimeter. Finally, they also compare the flight parameters with the theoretically expected values. Using this simple scheme the students are later introduced in the simulation of complex flows, using standard techniques. We find that our students get rapidly involved in the project, allowing them to acquire several practical abilities, besides developing an accurate knowledge of the physics of rockets and of fluid dynamics. Peer Reviewed