Using communications assignments to improve students´ preparation for the major design experience

Developments in engineering curricula have emphasized the importance of engineering design and communication skills in preparing students for professional practice. Assignments related to design and communication skills are typically integrated throughout the program, building on previous work and culminating in the major design experience. This paper describes a series of communications-related assignments that are integrated into the first course of a two-course major design experience. The primary goals of this approach are to strengthen the connection between the communication assignments and the technical content of the course and to improve students´ preparation for the major design project that is the basis of the subsequent course.