If you’re an engineering student at Canterbury Christ Church University, then you’ll be familiar with the CDIO approach. But if you’re yet to join us, you might not have a clue what we’re talking about!

So, here’s a case study demystifying what the CDIO approach is, how it’ll benefit you as an engineering student and graduate, and what our students have to say about it.

What is the CDIO method?

CDIO stands for Conceive – Design – Implement – Operate. Developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and other universities world-wide, it’s an educational approach to tackling engineering challenges through teamwork.

With an emphasis on collaboration, teamwork, active learning, and communication, engineering students who use the CDIO approach throughout their degree are ready to enter the workforce with both the technical and professional skills needed to succeed.

Throughout their entire degree, CCCU engineering students complete multiple CDIO projects, with many working with industry to solve real business problems, whilst practising their skills in fostering client relations.

Working with industry – Cactus Graphics

Ann and Elliot studied Biomedical Engineering at CCCU and worked with a company called Cactus Graphics, a printing company looking to move to a larger premises and needed help with ultilising their space to further increase efficiency.

Now, Ann is a Quality Assistant at a medical devices supplier, and Elliot is currently completing his MSc in Advanced Manufacturing Systems at CCCU.

We caught up with them to capture their experience working with Cactus Graphics using the CDIO approach.

Elliot: My task was to design the layout structure for their new premises, focusing on optimising the factory and machine placements. This included applying lean manufacturing principles to ensure efficient workflow and minimising waste.

Using the CDIO approach was beneficial as it focuses on the entire lifecycle of the project – from initial conception to the final operation.

Ann: Focusing on the lifecycle enabled us to address problems in a practical way: to take a process and implement it, to research the problem and solution, propose a design, produce a working prototype, and test it.

Elliot: The CDIO approach was invaluable in this project as it provided a structured methodology to tackle each phase.

During the Conceive phase, we identified the needs and constraints of the new premises. The Design phase involved creating detailed plans and models. The Implement phase saw these designs being put into practice. And finally, the Operate phase allowed us to refine and optimise the layout based on real-world feedback.

Ann: It also helped me develop my CAD (computer-aided design) skills as I got to produce CAD models of equipment that were quite intricate.

Not only this but I developed my skills in critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork, professional presentation, and space planning, which have been vital in my graduate role.

Elliot: I also developed similar skills to Ann. I gained several hard skills such as CAD modelling, process optimisation, and understanding of lean manufacturing principles.

And I developed soft skills like teamwork, project management, problem-solving, and effective communication.

Working with Cactus Graphics provided me with hands-on experience in a real-world setting. I learned how to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems and gained insight into the operational challenges of a manufacturing business. I also improved my ability to work under pressure and deliver results within tight deadlines.

Ann: For me, gaining first-hand industry experience was incredibly beneficial as I received invaluable feedback from Cactus Graphics, which gave me the opportunity to reflect and improve.

This experience taught me what industries look for in a person. It taught me how to communicate with industry, which has helped me in my current role as I deal with several manufacturers. I’m able to understand their needs and communicate effectively, which I learnt and practised throughout my time at CCCU.

Elliot: The experience and skills I gained from this project will be immensely beneficial after graduation. I now have practical experience in designing and optimising manufacturing processes, which is highly valued in the engineering field.

This project also enhanced my ability to work collaboratively and adapt to real-world challenges, preparing me for a successful career in engineering.

I would like to emphasise the importance of integrating practical experience with academic learning. The CDIO approach has been instrumental in bridging the gap between classroom knowledge and industry requirements.

Projects, like the one with Cactus Graphics, not only enhance our skills but also boost our confidence to take on complex engineering challenges in the future.

Get work-ready with CCCU

Here at CCCU, we understand that, in some industries and sectors, just having a degree doesn’t cut it anymore. As a graduate, you have to demonstrate not just your technical skills in your specialism, but highlight that you can communicate, work within a team, and build relationships with businesses.

With a degree from CCCU, you’ll gain the theoretical and practical skills needed to become a well-rounded graduate, ready to enter the workforce.

So, if you’re looking for a university where you can gain industry experience within your course, then choose CCCU.