Research-based learning: Projects of educational innovation within MUSE (Master on Space Systems) academic plan

Abstract

In a search for improvements in their academic plans, most universities are focused today in the development and use of innovative educational programs. Within the different possible innovative educational techniques, Research-Based Learning (RBL) is focused on the generation of didactic experiences based on the scientific method (question formulation, search for answers and solutions, resolution of problems and analysis of results). This method allows engineers and researchers to face new problems through the search of innovation and novel solutions to the problems, out of the common standards. The inclusion of the scientific method within the academic plan of the master’s degree in space systems (MUSE) of Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) is carried out through the definition of study cases. These study cases and the RBL employed methodology supports the theoretical contents of the other subjects included in the MUSE’s academic plan.
In the Microgravity Institute ‘Ignacio Da Riva’ (IDR/UPM), different lines of research have been developed to involve students into space projects. Although these lines of research were initially related to the PhD at UPM, the increasing interest among the bachelor and master students on research and projects involving the most advanced engineering techniques, prompted the IDR/UPM academic staff to offer some specific projects to their Master student. Among them, the educational innovation RBL project PIRAMIDE was recently stablished.
The subject areas included in this project are related to several space engineering fields: (i) System engineering, where students are involved into the preliminary design (phase 0/A) of space missions by using Concurrent Engineering (CE); (ii) On-board computer design, by the selection and study of specific solutions providing novel knowledge in the field of space mission computers; (iii) Smart design methodologies applied to graphic engineering, where students focus their effort in the development of alternative design techniques for space applications, including manufacturing, assembly, and integration processes; (iv) Analysis of power systems for space applications, by studying systems currently employed in the space sector; and finally (v) Design of attitude control systems, where the students are involved in the development and implementation of a simulated attitude control system based on Arduino.The subject areas included in the educational innovation experience described here are multidisciplinary, the RBL methodology implemented being transversal to several engineering practices. These characteristics allow their application to other fields different from space engineering. The learning concept presented here leads to an increase in student’s motivation by involving them in actual research projects that support the theoretical concepts, by mixing theory with practical knowledge. Throughout the research experience, students acquire and outstanding set of high value tools for their future professional life and, in addition, the use of RBL leads to an increase in the teaching quality.