Active learning using mechatronics in a freshman information technology course

This paper details efforts at the United States Military Academy to employ mechatronics in an active-learning environment. We use mechatronics to teach future Army leaders information technology (IT) and problem-solving with computers, as well as introduce them to autonomous vehicles, sensors, and computer simulation. Cadets are taught a four-step problem-solving methodology to develop and implement the components for a mechatronic device using the Mindstorms Lego Robot. After cadets complete problem analysis and design, they code and test their Java programs that control the robot in a graphical simulation environment called Jago. Once cadets are confident in their solution, they download their completed Java program to the Mindstorms robot to verify that their code solves the problem in the real world. The impact on the cadets using mechatronics to solve problems has been very positive, and we are confident that the long-term impact will be substantial. Cadets are exposed to a number of different disciplines, gaining an understanding of how these disciplines work together to develop mechatronic devices. In addition, the robot projects help enforce the problem-solving methodology where cadets analyze, design, implement, and test their solutions.