A new curriculum at the University of Arkansas teaches mechanical engineering students about artificial intelligence through project-based learning.

In plain terms

Mechanical engineering students often lack sufficient training in artificial intelligence (AI), electrical, and computer engineering, despite these skills becoming crucial for tackling complex problems like those in thermal systems. Their heavy course loads also limit opportunities for new learning. To address this, researchers at the University of Arkansas designed a new curriculum to integrate AI into their mechanical engineering program. This curriculum uses a project-based learning approach, with a special focus on thermal engineering problems, and is divided into introductory, application, and advanced levels. The main goals are to improve students' understanding of AI models, boost their ability to solve engineering challenges using AI, and develop their skills in communicating across different technical disciplines. The curriculum and its resources are openly available to help other educators implement similar programs.