Makerspace integration into curriculum

Abstract

Preparing future engineers requires moving beyond traditional, siloed teaching methods toward approaches that build adaptability, resilience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and development of a robust engineering identity. However, many first-year engineering courses still emphasise theoretical content over practical, real-world skills. In response, this paper presents a food delivery robotics project co-developed by the School of Electrical Engineering and Telecommunications and UNSW Makerspace as a case study in curriculum design and innovation. The project uses hands-on learning, iterative skill-building, and a modular arena to engage students in authentic engineering challenges. By embedding experimentation, failure, and teamwork into the learning process, the initiative fosters a growth mindset and mirrors the collaborative nature of the engineering profession. This paper outlines the challenges and solutions involved in integrating Makerspace practices into the curriculum and highlights how such approaches can better prepare students for the evolving demands of the profession. The success of this initiative underscores the potential of interdisciplinary, practice-based education in cultivating the next generation of agile, industry-ready engineers.