Integration of First-Year Engineering Students into Research: 4 Year Data from the Electrical Vehicle Project (EVP)

This paper describes how to integrate first-year engineering students into an ongoing research project to further promote education and enthusiasm for the realities of the engineering profession.The two methods used were (1) parallel process and (2) self contained process.A parallel process is used when the research project or selected portion of the project is too complex or expensive for first-year students due to lack of knowledge or experience.Self contained process is used when less complex or expensive portions of the project can be completed by first-year students.Both processes were used in the Electrical Vehicle Project (EVP) at the University of Arkansas -Fort Smith.This paper concludes with detailed suggestions in selecting and implementing these processes for projects with which the reader is engaged.