Enhancing challenge-based learning with ChatGPT and product design methodologies

This study assessed the effectiveness of incorporating product design tools and ChatGPT into a challenge-based learning task, specifically a robotics challenge within a Mechanisms course for mechatronics students. The objective was to design and build a mobile robot mechanism capable of removing a flag from another robot. Students were divided into a control group and an experimental group, with both utilizing tools such as the House of Quality, Function Block Diagram, and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), with ChatGPT providing additional support. The methodology included instruction on the tools and their integration with ChatGPT. Results indicated that the experimental group outperformed the control group in task fulfillment, repeatability, and originality criteria. These findings suggest that combining traditional product design tools with AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance the ideation process and improve project outcomes. The potential for future research to explore and incorporate additional design methodologies is promising and could further validate these results.