Session: 09-01-01: Curriculum Innovations, Pedagogy and Learning Methodologies

Paper Number: 146332

146332 - Project-Based Learning Experiences for Undergraduate Students: Exploring Biotech Frontiers in Neet Living Machines Program at Mit 

Launched in 2017, the New Engineering Education Transformation (NEET) co-curricular program at MIT aims to revolutionize engineering education. This cross-departmental initiative emphasizes integrative, project-centric learning, fostering the development of vital skills, knowledge, and qualities necessary to tackle the significant challenges of the 21st century.

Typically, students join NEET during their second year of study and, spanning four years, they pursue their chosen major while also working towards obtaining a NEET Certificate in one of four interdisciplinary threads: Autonomous Machines, Climate & Sustainability Systems, Digital Cities, and Living Machines.

Living Machines (LM) represents one of the integral threads in NEET that allows the students to apply engineering principles and concepts to challenges in the Life and Medical Sciences, through innovative biotechnological approaches. Within Living Machines, students engage in diverse projects spanning synthetic biology, immuno-engineering, tissue engineering, microfluidics, and computational biology and other emerging research domains, all centered around advancing our understanding of human disease and its therapies. The objective is to involve students in tackling leading-edge challenges in biotechnology, irrespective of their academic background. Whether students are studying electrical engineering, keen on applying their expertise to biomedical issues, studying mechanical engineering aspiring to craft innovative biotech platforms, or in biological engineering aiming to delve deeper into specialized tracks, Living Machines offers a platform for exploration. Recognizing that addressing key biotech challenges necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration, Living Machines underscores the importance of teamwork through project-based learning and professional development opportunities. Furthermore, Living Machines provides students with practical experiences that prepare them for impactful contributions to the rapidly evolving landscape of biomedical engineering and biotechnology. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the Living Machines program, including its structure, objectives, and interdisciplinary approach to biotechnological innovation.

Presenting Author: Mehdi Salek MIT

Presenting Author Biography: Dr. Salek is a lead instructor at MIT.

Authors:

Mehdi Salek MIT
Amitava (Babi) Mitra MIT
Linda Griffith MIT