Revisiting childhood machinery toys: A practical assignment in undergraduate mechanical engineering studies

This paper explores the integration of a hands-on assignment in Mechanical Engineering studies, such as in the Mechanics of Machines course, with a focus on commonly used mechanisms like the four-bar and slider-crank mechanisms. Recognizing the challenges students face in connecting theoretical models to real-world applications, we implemented an innovative approach that utilizes affordable and easily accessible machinery toys. This approach consists of multiple carefully designed in-class and after-class tasks. Students actively assemble, identify, and quantitatively analyze the mechanisms in their assigned toys using the theoretical knowledge from the course lectures. The successful identification and analysis of kinematic pairs and mechanisms reflect a positive impact on students’ learning outcomes. Feedback from students indicated enhanced interest, comprehension, and confidence in their understanding of mechanical systems. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of this hands-on assignment in bridging the gap between theory and practice in mechanical engineering education, while also providing insights for future improvements in assignment design and timing. The proposed hands-on assignment can be easily replicated in any classroom setting, including remote learning environments.