Development Of A Competency Based Introductory Course In Fluid Power

Abstract

A project to develop a novel curriculum for the associate degree in manufacturing engineering technology has been funded by the National Science Foundation. The Sinclair Community College in Dayton, OH, coordinates the development work of the course. The focus of the curriculum development process is to create an industry-driven, competency-based, modularly structured, and integrated curriculum. One of the last modules to be developed is the fluid power module, which is scheduled for six weeks in the fourth quarter (out of six). It allocates 20 contact hours for this introductory program in industrial fluid power. As in all other modules, the competencies developed by participants (students) meet the needs of manufacturing industries for manufacturing technicians with appropriate skills and knowledge. A team from industry and academia has developed a set of competencies in fluid power. The competencies guide the participant to develop necessary skills and knowledge. They also imply that a person can demonstrate competency in ways going beyond the traditional curricula. Emphasis is on what the course participant can do. The tasks to be completed by participants are focused on enhancing the problem solving skills.