Competing for a degree

An industrially sponsored design and manufacture competition for the first-year of a mechanical engineering degree is described as a replacement for a more conventional Engineering Applications programme. The essential elements for running such an event are discussed as a case study together with an analysis of how the learning objectives are met. In particular, the authors concentrate on the role of competition as a motivator in the context of mixed feelings about this expressed by contemporary educators. The sponsor lends support to the learning method and describes the benefits the company has gained in respect of graduate recruitment and in terms of company satisfaction.