Introducing students to electronic devices and electric circuit applications at early level in the engineering curriculum through multiple projects

This paper presents an approach to introduce the field of electronics to students studying introductory electric circuits through multiple projects. In these projects the students learn about nonlinear electronic devices such as diodes and transistors and the physical principles used in electronic sensors such as the piezoelectric effect. In addition, students are required to apply techniques often taught in subsequent electric circuit courses. Thus, each project introduces material that bridges the gap between an entry-level circuits course and an electronics course. The paper presents the details of the projects which include the project description, the learning outcomes and their assessment, the rubrics used for evaluation of students' work, and the lessons learned throughout the project implementation. Additionally, the paper discusses the students' attitude toward the project - especially learning about electronics and electric circuit applications.